Transport for London (TfL) has revealed that the number of phones and other personal items dropped onto London Underground tracks has doubled in two years. In 2025, TfL recorded 438 incidents, more than double the 197 reports in 2023 and a steady rise from 272 in 2024.
Dangerous Retrieval Practice
The transport authority has launched a fresh appeal urging passengers against the "extremely dangerous" practice of going onto the tracks to retrieve dropped belongings. Mark Evers, customer insight lead at TfL, said it is natural to panic when something drops from your hands or pocket, but Londoners should instead ask a member of staff to retrieve it.
Trespassing on the tracks is a criminal offence and can result in prosecution or a fine. TfL is ramping up the number of posters across the network to discourage the practice.
Staff Retrieval Devices
Trained staff members use a retrieval device to pick up items without needing to go onto the tracks. These devices can pick up smaller items such as phones or earphones, along with larger belongings including hats and shoes. Occasionally, staff may need to go onto the tracks to retrieve the item and sometimes wait until the end of service.
"When a valuable or important personal belonging falls onto the tracks, it’s natural to panic, but that moment of panic can cloud our judgement. Going onto the tracks to retrieve the item is extremely dangerous, endangering ourselves and others," Mr Evers said. "No item’s worth that risk. We urge everyone to stay behind the yellow line and take precautions to prevent items from falling. If something does fall, our trained staff are ready to help, to save you putting yourself and others at risk."
What to Do If You Drop an Item
Elizabeth line, London Overground, and Tube customers should tell a member of staff on the platform if an item ends up on the tracks. If none are available, they can use a help point or speak to a team member in the ticket hall or station entrance. On the DLR, customers should inform the staff member on the train or use the emergency alarm on the platform. On London Trams, customers should use the Passenger Help Point on board the tram and on platforms.
