Waterloo station evacuated as platform alarm set off 'by mistake'
Commuters were also evacuated from Charing Cross station because of a security alert
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Waterloo station was briefly evacuated during Friday morning's rush hour after a passenger alarm on a platform was accidentally set off.
A spokesperson for British Transport Police (BTP) said the alert sounded at 9.01am from the Underground station, which links the Northern, Bakerloo, Jubilee and Waterloo and City lines.
Passengers unaware the evacuation was caused by a false alarm spoke of their shock on Twitter as signs outside the station displayed red warnings reading: "Emergency, do not enter".
Stephen Morrison wrote on Twitter: "Being evacuated from a tube station will definitely wake you up in the morning. Slightly scary start to the day."
A spokesperson for BTP said the station was reopened by 9.15am and movement was returning to normal.
"A platform alarm on the Tube was activated by mistake but it has been re-set and the station is being reopened," she added.
Waterloo is London's busiest station, seeing more than 89 million passengers arrive and depart every year, according to Transport for London's latest figures.
Nearby Charing Cross station was closed half an hour later after also being evacuated when an unattended bag sparked a security alert. It was found to be safe and the station re-opened within minutes.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments