A Greater Anglia train has derailed between Wickford and Rayleigh in Essex, bringing services between Southend Victoria and Shenfield to a halt. The incident, which occurred on Friday, comes less than 24 hours after another derailment in East Sussex left 20 people injured and prompted a major incident declaration by British Transport Police.
Emergency services are currently at the scene near Wickford, with an air ambulance spotted overhead, according to EssexLive. Passengers have been urged not to travel between Shenfield and Southend Victoria until further notice, while alternative travel arrangements have been put in place.
Major Disruption on the Rail Network
Trains are currently unable to run between Southend Victoria and Shenfield, causing significant disruption for commuters in Essex. Greater Anglia has advised passengers to check before traveling and to use alternative routes where possible. The extent of the damage and the cause of the derailment have not yet been confirmed.
This is the second derailment in as many days, raising concerns about rail safety. On Thursday, a Southern train passing through Lewes, East Sussex, came off the rails around 4pm, with several carriages keeling over completely onto their side. That incident involved around 150 people on board and led to a major incident being declared by British Transport Police.
Previous Derailment in East Sussex
In Thursday's incident near Lewes railway station, three carriages derailed on their side, trapping passengers on board. Twenty people were injured, and rail bosses have launched an investigation into the cause. The derailment prompted a large emergency response, with rail investigators at the scene, as reported by James Manning of PA Wire.
The back-to-back derailments have sparked questions about the safety of the rail network, though officials have not yet linked the two incidents. Both are subject to separate investigations.
Passengers Advised to Avoid Travel
Given the ongoing disruption, passengers are being advised to avoid travel between Shenfield and Southend Victoria until further notice. Alternative travel arrangements have been made, but delays are expected. The situation is developing, and further updates will be provided by Greater Anglia and transport authorities.
The impact of these incidents is likely to be felt for some time, as investigations into both derailments continue and services are restored.
