Portugal declares Mourning Day after 15 die in Lisbon funicular accident

Portugal has declared September 4 a national day of mourning following a tragic accident on the Glória funicular in Lisbon that claimed at least 15 lives and inflicted injuries to 23 others, including a child.

The funicular derailed in the afternoon of September 3, causing a violent crash. Authorities confirmed that all passengers have been evacuated, but a safety perimeter remains in place while debris is cleared. Victims have been taken to hospitals including Amadora, São Francisco Xavier, Santa Maria, and São José for treatment, Caliber.Az reports, citing Portuguese media.

The first identified fatality is André Marques, the funicular’s brake guard. Preliminary reports from the Lisbon Fire Department suggest the accident was caused by a cable that came loose, causing the car to lose control and collide with a building wall.

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa expressed “deep sorrow” over the accident, particularly for those killed or seriously injured, and called on authorities to clarify the incident promptly. Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas also declared three days of local mourning. Public events have been cancelled, and world leaders have expressed condolences.

Operating since 1885, the Glória funicular is one of Lisbon’s oldest in service, travelling from Praça dos Restauradores to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. It underwent maintenance between August 26 and September 30 last year, with the operator Carris stating that all protocols were followed.

The Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an inquiry into the incident, and the Mobility and Transport Authority will conduct a supervisory review to determine the cause of the derailment.

By Khagan Isayev