The Blackwall Tunnel has finally reopened after being closed for 12 hours due to a van fire. The incident caused huge queues of traffic to build up in south-east London, with drivers abandoning their cars.
TfL were still working to repair the tunnel’s surface following the fire in the early hours of this morning (Thursday).
Motorists were forced to leave their cars inside the north-bound tunnel after the van caught fire around midday on Wednesday, causing the major Thames crossing to be evacuated and sparking the lengthy closure, says The Evening Standard.
Severe delays were affecting Greenwich and the surrounding area throughout Wednesday afternoon, and into Wednesday night.
TfL had diverted traffic from the A102 at Woolwich Road with congestion on diversion routes towards Woolwich Ferry, Rotherhithe Tunnel and Tower Bridge. A TfL spokesperson said, around 10.45pm on Wednesday: “The Blackwall tunnel was closed earlier after a van fire. Thankfully everyone in the tunnel was evacuated safely and there were no injuries.
“Work is underway so that the tunnel can reopen, which we expect to happen in the early hours of the morning.
“Drivers are advised to use alternative river crossings while the route via Blackwall is closed and check before they travel.”
(Pic – TfL)
