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London Trains Overcrowded Due to Small Replacements
22 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Commuters face severe overcrowding on London-bound trains.
- Replacement trains are smaller, exacerbating passenger density.
- Engine issues with supplier Hitachi are being addressed by GWR.
Rail commuters heading into London are reporting severe overcrowding on services, leading to missed trains and significant inconvenience. The primary cause identified is the deployment of smaller replacement trains that cannot adequately accommodate the usual passenger volume.
Great Western Railway (GWR) acknowledged the issue after a commuter contacted their local MP. The company is actively addressing a problem with the diesel engines of its trains, collaborating with the supplier, Hitachi, to find a resolution. This mechanical fault is a key factor contributing to the current service disruptions.
GWR stated that the problem impacts a minimal portion of their daily services, estimating it affects approximately 2.5% of trains. Despite this low percentage, the impact on regular commuters remains a significant concern, highlighting the need for prompt and effective solutions.
