More trains running after Channel Tunnel fire

More trains are now able to run through the Channel Tunnel following the serious fire there earlier this month, it was announced today.

Tunnel operator Eurotunnel said another of the previously-closed sections of the north tunnel had now reopened, raising overall capacity from 170 trains a day to 210.

This means the London to Paris and Brussels high-speed Eurostar train services will be almost back to normal.

There will also be more Folkestone to Calais passenger and truck shuttles and rail freight trains will be able to use the tunnel at night.

Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat transport spokesman Norman Baker has called for a safety review of lorries using the tunnel following the 11 September fire in which a number of lorry drivers suffered smoke inhalation.

Mr Baker said hazardous cargos such as radioactive material should be banned.

He also wants the amount of fuel that can be carried cut from 1,500 litres to 300 litres to reduce the risk of fire.

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