At least 15 people were killed and 18 others injured on Wednesday evening (local time) when a historic funicular in Lisbon, the Elevador da Gloria, derailed and crashed, the New York Times reported, citing Portugal`s health ministry. Out of the 18 injured, five are in critical condition. According to the New York Times, citing the Lisbon Firefighters Regiment, the incident occurred shortly after 6 pm (local time) when a cable reportedly snapped, causing the funicular to lose control and slam into a nearby building.

The Elevador da Gloria, a century-old cable railway built in 1885, is one of Lisbon`s most iconic transportation systems, linking Restauradores Square to the scenic Bairro Alto neighbourhood. Its two-car system climbs steep hills and serves both locals and the city`s millions of annual tourists. Each tram can hold up to 42 passengers and is operated by Carris, Lisbon`s public transport operator, as per the New York Times.

In a statement, Tiago Augusto, head of Portugal`s health ministry, noted that the victims included both Portuguese citizens and foreigners, though nationalities had yet to be confirmed. No children were among the deceased, he added. As per the New York Times, citing local news reports, both passengers aboard the derailed car and pedestrians nearby were among the casualties.