The Dartford Tunnel is facing an indefinite closure following a significant incident on Friday, where an oversized lorry caused extensive damage after striking multiple pieces of equipment within the tunnel.
Major Incident Sparks Widespread Disruption
National Highways has confirmed that the tunnel remains shut today due to what they describe as "substantial damage following a lorry strike." The vehicle, which exceeded the permissible height limit, entered the Dartford Tunnel and collided with critical infrastructure, leading to a scene that requires extensive and ongoing repairs.
Drivers Warned of Prolonged Delays
Motorists are being urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes, as the closure is expected to result in huge delays for the foreseeable future. The incident has disrupted traffic flow significantly, impacting commuters and freight transport alike.
Authorities have not provided a timeline for when the tunnel might reopen, emphasising that safety assessments and repair work are still underway. This breaking news story highlights the vulnerability of key transport links to such accidents and the ripple effects on regional mobility.
As repairs continue at the scene, drivers are advised to stay updated through official channels and plan their journeys accordingly to mitigate the impact of these severe traffic disruptions.