Major wildfires beside a busy rail track brought train services to a standstill, with passengers evacuated from carriages bound for Stansted Airport. The grass fire broke out near Waltham Abbey in Essex on Sunday afternoon, sending huge plumes of smoke visible across north London.
Fire reported near tracks at 2pm
At least 50 people reported the grassfire to the side of the tracks at around 2pm. Fire engines were dispatched as the blaze spread quickly, prompting the London Fire Brigade (LFB) to instruct all train movements in the area to stop as a safety precaution.
Passengers were seen being taken off trains as they ground to a halt on the route to Stansted Airport. The disruption affected services between Liverpool Street and the airport, a key transport link for travellers.
LFB sends specialist terrain vehicles
An LFB spokesman said: 'One of the Brigade's Terrain Support Vehicles has been sent to the scene to support firefighting efforts.' The vehicle provides off-road capability, enabling the transportation of additional equipment closer to fires on open ground.
'Each vehicle carries approximately 475 litres of water, a backpack blower, ear defenders, beaters and misting lance technology, which allows firefighters to pump water and drive, enabling them to tackle grass fires more quickly and safely,' the spokesman added.
Stansted Express issues diversion notice
A Stansted Express spokesperson said: 'Train services running through this station may be delayed or diverted via Seven Sisters. Disruption is expected until further notice.'
'Unfortunately, we have received reports of multiple fires close to the railway lines and as a result, and a safety precaution, the London Fire Brigade have instructed that all train movements in the area be stopped. In reaction trains towards and from Liverpool Street will be diverted via Seven Sisters until further notice,' the spokesperson continued.
'Network Rail and the emergency response team are on site working as quickly as possible to put out the fires and restore the train service to normal.'
Impact on travellers and airport access
The halt in services caused significant disruption for passengers heading to Stansted, one of London's major airports. Diversions via Seven Sisters added considerable journey times, and no timeline was given for when normal service would resume.
Local residents reported seeing smoke from miles away, with some describing the scene as alarming. Fire crews worked to contain the blaze, which was fuelled by dry grass and strong winds.
Safety measures and ongoing response
The LFB's use of terrain support vehicles highlights the challenges of tackling fires on open ground. The misting lance technology allows firefighters to pump water while driving, improving efficiency and safety.
Network Rail and emergency teams remained on site to extinguish the fires fully. Passengers were advised to check live updates before travelling, as further delays were possible.
