A major fire at a busy London train station caused widespread disruption on Wednesday, forcing evacuations and bringing rail services to a halt during peak hours. Emergency services responded swiftly as thick smoke filled parts of the station.
The fire broke out in the early morning, prompting the immediate closure of the station and surrounding lines. Passengers were evacuated as a precaution, with no serious injuries reported.
Fire crews worked for several hours to contain the blaze, while police cordoned off the area. Rail operators warned of delays and cancellations across multiple routes.
Commuters described scenes of confusion as announcements changed rapidly and alternative transport options were overwhelmed. Local businesses were also affected as access to the area was restricted.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, though early indications suggest it was not suspicious. Engineers are assessing damage to infrastructure before services can fully resume.
Transport officials apologised for the disruption and thanked passengers for their patience. They said safety remains the top priority and that repairs would be carried out as quickly as possible.
The incident has renewed calls for investment in ageing rail infrastructure, with unions and campaigners arguing that maintenance must be prioritised to prevent future disruptions.
As services gradually return to normal, the fire serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of transport networks and the importance of emergency preparedness.
