Train chaos for commuters after train derails on London-bound line

13 January 2022, 11:09 | Updated: 13 January 2022, 11:24

The derailment affected trains in and out of St Pancras
The derailment affected trains in and out of St Pancras. Picture: Southeastern/Alamy

By Daisy Stephens

Commuters travelling to and from London St Pancras International faced travel disruption on Thursday morning after a freight train derailed in Kent.

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One of the train's wheels came off the rails at the Hoo Junction depot between Gravesend and Strood in the early hours of Thursday, blocking southbound lanes and causing delays and cancellations to high-speed passenger services operated by Southwestern.

It does not appear any injuries have been reported.

Whilst the route has since reopened, Southeastern warned that disruption was expected to continue until midday.

The train had difficulties at Hoo Junction
The train had difficulties at Hoo Junction. Picture: Google Maps

High-speed services from London St Pancras International towards Strood are being diverted after Ebbsfleet International.

Southeastern warned that trains heading towards the capital "may be delayed or amended at short notice".

The derailment also means that all trains from Gravesend towards Rochester are cancelled.

A "rescue locomotive" was used to remove the wagons blocking passenger trains.

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Southeastern travellers were already facing a reduced service as an emergency timetable was introduced on Monday in response to coronavirus pandemic-related staff shortages.

Operators across Britain have taken the same measure in an attempt to reduce the number of short-notice cancellations.