COMMUTERS who use the Central Line have to find alternative ways of getting to work as the line remains closed until further notice following the derailment near Chancery Lane station on Saturday.

The tube line, which serves three stations across the borough was forced to close. A statement issued by the Health and Safety Executive said: "Initial indications are that the derailment was caused by a traction motor falling from beneath the train onto the track."

Part of the London Undeground's internal investigation into the derailment will focus on the "rumour" that tube bosses had been aware for months that bolts securing the motors had a tendency to loosen, the LU spokeswoman said.

It also refuted claims that the driver of the train involved had been suspended. In a written statement, a spokesman said: "The driver, along with all his other Central Line colleagues, is not working at the moment because the line is closed while we check the 85-strong fleet of trains for any possible safety defects.

"The driver is being supported in every way possible. He was badly shocked by the accident and is at home recovering. He is helping with the investigation."

The Central Line and Waterloo and City lines may be reopened some time next week, with one section of the line expected to be closed for several weeks.

Saturday's derailment threw the train against the tunnel wall shattering windows and injuring 32 passengers. Of the 800 passengers on the train the worst injury sustained was a broken leg, the spokeswoman said.

January 30, 2003 10:00