British rail-services got hit by a wide-spread technical problem affecting the key communication link between train drivers and signal operators (a system thats crucial for safe rail operations). The issue appeared early morning Dec 6th causing delays across multiple routes
The disruption hit some important connections including trains to-and-from Heathrow Airport making travel plans uncertain for air passengers. Online departure boards in London and other big cities showed multiple delayed services; some trains got stuck at their starting points
National Rail explained the situation: “Most problems are happening with trains trying to leave depots to start their daily routes“ They also noted that once trains manage to get going they can run as normal. The communication system fault didnt affect trains that were already in-service which helped keep some routes operating
The issue is mainly affecting trains on some routes leaving the depot to start their service However trains can run normally once they are underway