The Blackwall Tunnel was closed early Thursday because of a vehicle fire, sparking commuter chaos.
Around 40 firefighters tackled the fire in the major river crossing between Greenwich and east London, which was closed just after 4am.
Traffic was diverted via an overheight vehicle ramp. A small part of the cable tunnel was damaged by the fire and there were no reports of injuries.
The tunnel later reopened at around 7.30am, but heavy traffic persisted afterwards. The closure caused traffic to become stationary in the area northbound up to Blackwall Lane.
TfL has warned motorists to “expect long days” if attempting to use the river crossing, with delays back to Greenwich’s Sun in the Sands.
“Avoid Blackwall Tunnel …. now been closed by police with multiple fire crews walking down the approach with breathing apparatus on,” said one commuter.
Another added: “Blackwall Tunnel closed, what a shambles.” Meanwhile a third said: “Blackwall Tunnel might actually be the bane of my existence.”
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said the cause of the fire was under investigation.
