Sadiq Khan’s new train fleet withdrawn over braking issues
Sadiq Khan’s £1 billion new fleet of trains has been withdrawn due to serious braking problems in wet conditions, reports BritPanorama.
The Docklands Light Railway has faced criticism following the decision, which comes after one of the new trains overshot a platform at Canning Town station during heavy rain. Passengers were on board at the time, but safety mechanisms prevented the doors from opening onto the tracks.
In response to safety concerns, the fleet has been withdrawn while Spanish manufacturers investigate the source of the braking failures. Transport for London has stated it is conducting an examination of the situation, characterizing the incident as “one isolated event.”
London’s Conservative leader, Susan Hall, condemned the situation as “another embarrassment” attributed to Khan’s Labour administration, stating, “To produce vehicles and their brakes don’t work, it beggars belief. It’s just one farce after another.” This comes in wake of Khan previously hailing the “amazing” trains when the first of 54 entered service, although the project has already experienced delays exceeding a year, with costs ballooning to nearly £1 billion.
The implications of this development are significant for London’s transport infrastructure, as questions arise regarding safety standards and accountability in public transport projects.
The episode underscores ongoing tensions in UK politics, particularly relating to governance, infrastructure spending, and public safety, affirming the need for transparency and effectiveness in managing public resources.
