An issue with the overhead wires has caused major disruption on the trains
20:37, 18 Sep 2025Updated 20:39, 18 Sep 2025
Great Western Railway and Elizabeth Line trains are impacted(Image: Matthew Horwood)
Customers have been told they should not attempt to travel between London Paddington and Reading due to a fault. All lines are currently blocked with major disruption and cancellations expected until the end of the day on Thursday.
As engineers work to resolve the issue with the Overline Line Equipment (OLE) all trains between the two stations have been cancelled until further notice. OLE is the overhead wires and other equipment on electrified railway lines which provide power to the trains.
Replacement buses, coaches and taxis are not in action due to the vast number of people who are affected by the problem.
Elizabeth line services between Paddington and Reading are also impacted by the problem. For the biggest stories in Wales first, sign up to our daily newsletter here.
Great Western Railway told customers that disruption is expected to last until the end of the day, Thursday, September 18.
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Passengers are urged to use the National Rail Enquiries journey planner to see if another route is possible and are able to use their tickets at no extra cost on South Western Railway services this evening or on their intended journey tomorrow.
Great Western Railway tickets for travel today will be accepted for travel tomorrow, Friday September 19.
Affected routes:
- All Great Western Railway services to / from London Paddington
- Elizabeth line between Shenfield and London Paddington / Heathrow Terminal 5, and also between Abbey Wood and Heathrow Terminal 4 / Maidenhead / ReadingHeathrow Express between London Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 5