Southeastern cancels London-Kent trains over bedbug infestation
Pest problem traced to West Marina depot affects drivers' cabs, leading to service disruptions.
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Southeastern railway cancelled two train services on September 29 that ran between London and Kent. The cancellations were a result of a bedbug infestation that affected the rail company's operations.
Infestation details
Two commuter trains cancelled after bedbugs found in driver cabs
Southeastern isolated the trains at West Marina Depot in Hastings and assured passengers no bugs were present in passenger areas or on High Speed 1 services
The bedbug infestation was traced to the West Marina depot. Oly Turner, head of drivers for Southeastern, stated that the pests were found only in the drivers' cabs of two trains and had not been identified in any passenger areas. Southeastern has said that all affected trains are thoroughly checked before being returned to service.
Reports indicated that the issue led to one driver refusing to operate a train without protective gear. Another train, nicknamed the ‘bedbug express’ by staff, reportedly ran with two carriages locked to prevent the spread of the pests. Southeastern has stated that it carries out regular cleaning across its trains and stations.
Questions this report answers
+Why were Southeastern trains cancelled on September 29?
Two Southeastern train services between London and Kent were cancelled on September 29 due to a bedbug infestation. The pests were found in the drivers' cabs of some trains, leading to operational issues and cancellations.
+Were passengers affected by the bedbugs?
Southeastern has stated that the bedbug infestation was contained to the drivers' cabs and did not affect passenger carriages. Oly Turner, head of drivers, confirmed that no bedbugs were identified in areas used by passengers.
+Where did the bedbug infestation originate?
The bedbug infestation affecting Southeastern trains was traced to the West Marina depot. Pest control services were pictured at the depot in relation to the outbreak.
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