Tragic funicular incident in Lisbon causes minimum of 15 fatalities, authorities confirm

In a shocking incident, the Gloria funicular railway in Lisbon derailed and crashed on Wednesday, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and around 18 injuries. The popular tourist spot, which connects the downtown area near Restauradores Square with the Bairro Alto (Upper Quarter), was the scene of the accident.

The authorities did not disclose the identities or nationalities of the victims, but it has been reported that several foreign nationals were among the dead. The nations represented among the victims include Germany, Spain, South Korea, Canada, Italy, France, and Switzerland.

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa lamented the accident and expressed hope for a swift investigation into the cause. Lisbon's mayor, Carlos Moedas, described the incident as "tragic" for the city.

The funicular line, operated by the municipal public transport company Carris, has two cars attached to opposite ends of a haulage cable, with traction provided by electric motors on the two cars. User-generated video footage showed the car at the top of the line jolting violently when the other one derailed.

Emergency medical services confirmed the casualties, and several passengers were seen jumping out of the windows of the derailed car. Witnesses reported people shouting as the incident unfolded.

Portugal and Lisbon have experienced a tourism boom in the past decade, with visitors cramming the popular downtown area in the summer months. The funicular line is used by tourists as well as local residents.

Global News reached out to Global Affairs Canada to confirm if any Canadians were affected. The nations' embassies in Lisbon are providing assistance to their citizens.

As the investigation into the cause of the accident continues, the city of Lisbon and its residents mourn the loss of life and pray for the swift recovery of the injured.