Train chaos across Britain as networks hit by ‘nationwide fault’ sparking cancellations & major delays during rush hour
SEVERAL train companies have been hit by major delays this morning due to a nationwide fault.
Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Southern, Thameslink and Southeastern trains were all affected.
National Rail said disruption was caused by an issue with an onboard communication system between train drivers and signal operators.
The operator said services may be cancelled, delayed by up to 15 minutes or revised.
A statement read: “There is a nationwide fault with the communication system used between train drivers and signallers.
“As a result, services across the National Rail network may be subject to disruption this morning.
“Trains across the network are having to start their journeys later because of this fault and some may also be subject to cancellations or alterations.
“Please check before you travel, allow extra time for your journey and monitor live departure boards.”
ScotRail passengers are being permitted to travel via “any reasonable route” because of the issue.
London Underground and Overground lines also experienced closures and delays today.
A signal failure meant minor delays for commuters between Acton Town and Heathrow Airport.
Meanhwile the newly renamed Suffragette Line suffered severe delays.
A train was also broken down on the Northern Line and there was no service between Rayners Court and Uxbridge on the Piccadilly Line.
Transport for London (TfL) said there were minor delays as engineers carried out “emergency” repairs.
Several passengers took to social media to share their experiences of the travel chaos.
One wrote on Twitter: “Elizabeth line keeps inventing new ways to delay the service.
“This time there’s a fault with the radio system between the driver and signaller. Radio, that cutting-edge technology.”
Another said: “@TfL some honesty please? Good service and this on the Elizabeth line?”