Lisbon’s Elevador da Glória Probe Finds Uncertified Cable and Failed Emergency Brake

Overview

• A preliminary GPIAAF report identifies a non‑compliant counterweight cable not certified for passenger transport, installed in 2022 and apparently procured in error due to failures in Carris’s internal controls.
• Investigators cite maintenance shortcomings, including tasks recorded as completed that evidence suggests were not performed, insufficient staff training, and weak supervision of a third‑party contractor.
• The cable ruptured in a section unreachable during routine inspections, with access requiring immobilizing the cabins and dismantling components for at least two days.
• The emergency brake did not work when triggered and had never been tested; the report advises keeping other funiculars shut until cable fixation and braking systems are verified.
• The crash on September 3 killed 16 people and injured about 20; Carris dismissed its maintenance lead, and a final report detailing responsibilities is expected in roughly 11 months.