Dartford Tunnel Shut for Emergency Repairs After Oversized Lorry Incident
Major disruption has hit the Dartford Crossing after an oversized lorry caused significant damage to essential safety equipment within the left tunnel. The incident occurred on Friday 23rd January, when a vehicle exceeding the permissible height attempted to enter the northbound tunnel between junctions 1a and 31.
Extensive Damage to Critical Safety Systems
National Highways has confirmed that the lorry struck multiple pieces of vital infrastructure, resulting in extensive damage to the tunnel's ventilation systems, CCTV network, and fire detection and suppression equipment. These systems are crucial for the safe operation of the tunnel, meaning traffic cannot flow through until repairs are completed.
Engineers have been working in overlapping shifts since the incident to assess and repair the damage, but the severity means the left tunnel is likely to remain closed throughout the day. The east (right) tunnel remains open, but drivers are still facing considerable delays.
Severe Traffic Congestion and Delays
Motorists in the Dartford area have been caught in traffic chaos since yesterday, with congestion building up on the A282. Current estimates suggest delays of around 30 minutes, with two miles of congestion backing onto the M25 in Kent.
National Highways has warned that delays are expected on the approach to the Dartford Crossing, advising drivers to plan alternative routes if possible. The closure has created a significant bottleneck for northbound traffic, affecting both commuter and freight movements.
Safety First Approach to Tunnel Operations
The decision to keep the tunnel closed until all safety systems are fully operational reflects the strict safety protocols governing such critical infrastructure. Tunnel ventilation, fire detection, and surveillance systems are non-negotiable requirements for safe passage through the underwater crossing.
This incident highlights the importance of height restrictions and proper vehicle compliance when using tunnel infrastructure. National Highways continues to monitor the situation closely as repair work progresses.
