Sonia Silva prepared to leave work on Wednesday evening when a colleague's request for help caused her to miss her usual funicular ride home in Lisbon. Upon arrival at the stop, she was met with the horrific sight of the funicular crash that resulted in the death of her friend, Sandra Coelho.
When I got there, it was a tragedy, Sonia remarked. The incident claimed the lives of 16 individuals, prompting Prime Minister António Costa to declare it one of the gravest tragedies in modern Portuguese history. Victims included both locals and foreign nationals, with three British citizens confirmed among the deceased.
A service commemorating the victims was held a few days later, where the community gathered to honor their lost colleagues. The emotional toll was palpable, with colleagues recalling daily commutes filled with pleasant conversations now replaced by sorrow. As Sonia reflected on her time with Sandra, she expressed her resentment alongside her gratitude for having avoided the disaster.
Survivors and mourners alike raised concerns about the safety of the funicular, historically regarded as a reliable mode of transport. Additionally, speculation arose regarding maintenance issues, with union leaders pointing to possible problems with the cable tension that could have led to the crash.
As an investigation unfolds, many express a reluctance to use the funicular again, highlighting a significant shift in the community’s perception of its safety. Sonia, surrounded by supportive colleagues, expressed her despair and anger: It could have been any one of us - all of us used this kind of transport and we felt very confident in it. The tragedy remains a haunting reminder of the fragility of everyday life.
