09 December 2024

A huge disruption on the UK’s rail network has caused delays on at least eight lines on 6 December. National Rail reported that the issue was due to a ‘nationwide fault’ with the radio system used between train drivers and signallers.

The Elizabeth line, Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Southern, South Western Rail, Thameslink, Southeastern and ScotRail services have all been affected. Journeys in and out of major transport hubs - including London Paddington and Victoria - have been impacted.

The issue appears to be down to a fault with the onboard GSMR radio system, which is used to communicate in case of emergencies. According to the Rail Safety and Standards Board Rule Book, in the case of a radio system failure, trains cannot exceed 100mph, or 60mph through affected areas.

ScotRail was affected early in the morning, but reported a fast recovery, stating that services are now ‘operating well.’ In an update on X, the company said that colleagues at Network Rail are experiencing an “industry-wide problem with communications systems.”

National Rail is investigating the cause of the fault.