Following the Incident in Lisbon: Inquiries Concerning the South-West Underground Line

In the aftermath of the tragic accident involving a funicular railway in Lisbon, concerns about the safety of similar transport systems have been raised. However, the government presidency of Freiburg, responsible for seven funicular railways in southwestern Germany, has expressed no concerns regarding the safety of these railways.

The funicular railways in Baden-Württemberg undergo rigorous safety checks, with annual external inspections, daily, weekly, and monthly checks, and a two-week revision every year. The operators of these railways ensure the smooth operation of their systems, with no reported accidents to date.

The funicular railways currently operating in the southwest include the two Königstuhl funicular railways in Heidelberg, the Künzelsau funicular, the Merkurberg funicular in Baden-Baden, the Bad Wildbad Sommerberg funicular, the funicular in the Adler-Skistadion in Hinterzarten, and the funicular to the Waldfriedhof in Stuttgart. Last year, these railways transported approximately 3.6 million passengers.

The technical differences between the funicular railway that derailed in Lisbon and those in Baden-Württemberg are significant. For instance, the cable guidance for the funicular railways in southwestern Germany is above ground, unlike the one that derailed in Lisbon. Additionally, the motor for the funicular railways in southwestern Germany is located in the mountain station, not beneath it.

It is worth noting that the Turmberg funicular in Karlsruhe is currently being modernized, ensuring that it meets the same high safety standards as the other funicular railways in the region.

The company responsible for operating the seven radio tower systems in Baden-Württemberg is the Landesanstalt für Kommunikation Baden-Württemberg (LFK). The RP spokesperson, however, does not have precise information about the construction of the Lisbon funicular, as it falls outside the jurisdiction of Baden-Württemberg.

In conclusion, the funicular railways in Baden-Württemberg are well-maintained and operate under stringent safety protocols, as evidenced by their accident-free record. The government presidency of Freiburg and the operators of the funicular railways remain committed to ensuring the safety of passengers.

Following the Incident in Lisbon: Inquiries Concerning the South-West Underground Line