Lisbon: Woman Misses Funicular Ride, Friend Killed in Accident

A Lisbon resident, Sonia Silva, described how she was delayed at work and narrowly avoided the Gloria funicular accident, in which her friend and 15 others were killed.

The 140-year-old funicular accident has been described by the Portuguese government as "one of the greatest human tragedies in our recent history." Sonia Silva expressed her shock at surviving, but also her anger at the loss of colleagues and friends.

Silva was delayed leaving work due to an extra task she was asked to do. This delay prevented her from taking her usual funicular route. When she arrived at the station, the accident had already occurred.

The causes of the accident remain under investigation, with rumors of overloading and poor maintenance. Many residents and workers say they will not use the funicular again.

"I told everyone I'm not going to use it anymore," said Sonia Silva.