Friday, July 19, 2024 A widespread IT outage on 19 th July sent shockwaves through the UK ‘s transportation network, leaving passengers stranded, frustrated and scrambling for alternative travel options. While the exact cause remains under investigation, initial reports suggest a potential link to a global Microsoft issue. This comprehensive report dissects the chaos that unfolded across various sectors of the UK’s travel infrastructure.
Rail Network Stalled: Information Scarcity Fuels Frustration Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR): Operating a vast network encompassing Thameslink, Southern, Great Northern, and Gatwick Express services, GTR faced critical issues hindering driver access to vital information. This resulted in potential last-minute cancellations and delays across their network. Passengers were advised to check GTR’s website for the latest updates, but information may be scarce during such disruptions.
South Western Railway (SWR): The IT outage rendered all SWR ticket vending machines inoperable. Passengers faced the inconvenience of purchasing tickets online, on board trains (if available) or seeking assistance from station staff. National Rail Enquiries: The national information service for rail travel in the UK reported widespread IT issues impacting numerous rail operators.
Passengers were urged to check with their specific train company for real-time updates on their journeys. However, individual rail company websites may also be experiencing higher traffi.