Commuters travelling into London are facing a severe rush hour nightmare this morning following multiple incidents on key railway lines, with major disruption expected to last for several hours.
Train Derailment Causes Widespread Cancellations
A train has derailed near Selhurst Depot, completely blocking the lines towards Norwood Junction and London Bridge. Network Rail Kent & Sussex confirmed they are responding to the suspected derailment, which is causing significant disruption to services across the area.
Thankfully, there are no confirmed injuries at this time, with emergency teams already on site working to resolve the situation. However, the blockage has forced three major train operators to issue urgent travel warnings.
Operator-Specific Disruption Details
Southern services are experiencing particularly severe impacts:
- Epsom to London Bridge services have been suspended entirely
- Tattenham Corner and Caterham to London Bridge services are being diverted via alternative routes
- Uckfield to London Bridge is operating a reduced service only
Thameslink has suspended several key routes:
- London Bridge to East Grinstead services
- Brighton to Cambridge services
- Bedford to Three Bridges services
Gatwick Express services are also facing major disruption as part of the wider network problems.
Signalling Fault Compounds Problems
Adding to the morning's travel chaos, a separate fault with the signalling system between Norwood Junction and London Blackfriars is contributing to today's extensive delays. This dual disruption has created particularly challenging conditions for commuters attempting to reach central London.
Travel Advice for Commuters
Southern, Thameslink and Gatwick Express have all issued do not travel warnings for affected routes this morning. Passengers are advised to:
- Avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary
- Allow for significant additional journey time if travel is essential
- Check for live updates before beginning any journey
- Consider alternative transport options where possible
Delays of up to an hour are expected to continue until at least 1pm today, with services likely to remain disrupted throughout the morning rush hour period. Network Rail engineers are working to clear the blocked lines and restore normal service as quickly as possible.
