In Portugal’s capital Lisbon, tragedy struck when the popular Elevador da Gloria tram derailed, killing 15 people and injuring many more. It was on Wednesday, when the iconic yellow-and-white tram derailed and crashed into a building after a supporting cable snapped.
The crash left the tram crumpled on a steep street, killing the Portuguese driver and several passengers, including a German national. Among the 23 injured were five in critical condition and a three-year-old child.
The Portuguese government declared a national day of mourning and suspended operations of other funiculars across Lisbon while authorities investigate the cause of the accident. The state-run tram operator Carris stated that maintenance checks were outsourced and procedures were followed, but questions over safety standards remain.
While addressing the tragic incident, Mayor Carlos Moedas called it the city’s worst tram accident and also added that the city is mourning. He described the tragedy as a devastating moment for both residents and visitors.
This heartbreaking accident has sent shockwaves across the country, raising urgent concerns about transport safety in one of Europe’s most visited sites.
