MPs have demanded answers from TfL over repeated signal failures on the District Line heaping misery on south west London residents.
Commuters have complained of “severe and unacceptable levels of disruption”, digital signs displaying the wrong information and last minute station closures.
Some of the problems impacting the Wimbledon branch of the line have been blamed on “persistent” signal failures at East Putney.
Putney Labour MP Fleur Anderson said the issues have been regular, happening at least once a month, but reached “new lows” last week when thousands of commuters were impacted by delays and cancellations.
In a letter to TfL and Network Rail, she wrote: “The signal failures and subsequent delays that have affected the District Line are reported as occurring regularly, at least once a month, and are particularly affecting morning commuters and school children.
“Another constituent has reported that Southfields station has recently been closed without warning on several occasions, with no alternative provision for travellers.
“In one case a resident was so delayed by the unexpected closure they were extremely delayed in getting to a hospital appointment.”
She asked the rail providers to explain what is causing the issues, share updates on what is being done to resolve them and “clarify the timeline for upgrades to the District Line as a whole.
Liberal Democrat MP for Wimbledon, Paul Kohler, said he has also been contacted by constituents frustrated by the problems hitting the line.
In a letter to TfL commissioner Andy Lord, he said: “My constituents have been facing delays, suspensions and reduction in services for around two weeks due to signal failures at East Putney.
“I understand the issue may lie with Network Rail. Some of my constituents have also flagged the communication around the issue has been poor, including when some have asked for information via TfL’s social media channels.
“I would greatly appreciate an update on this issue, including the plan and timeline for solving the problem at East Putney, and details of what extra capacity TfL will deliver on this route particularly during rush hour if the problems continue.”
TfL has been contacted for comment.
