M25 Chaos: QE2 Bridge Shut After Police Welfare Incident
Morning drivers on the clockwise M25 are caught in gridlock after police halted all traffic on the QE2 Bridge. The disruption started just after 1:15am and continues to cause chaos between Junction 31 (Lakeside/Purfleet) and Junction 1A (Dartford).
Police Incident Brings Traffic to a Standstill
Emergency services responded quickly to a welfare concern involving a person reportedly on the wrong side of the safety barrier on the QE2 Bridge. Essex Police are at the scene, keeping all clockwise traffic at a halt while they manage the situation.
National Highways warned: “M25 clockwise – QE2 Bridge: All traffic currently held due to a police-led incident. Expect delays.”
Severe Rush Hour Delays Predicted
The QE2 Bridge is a crucial link between Kent and Essex. Traffic is already backing up miles from Junction 31, with major congestion expected to worsen throughout the morning rush. National Highways has highlighted heavy jams on approach roads including the A13 and A282.
Commuters and freight drivers are urged to avoid the area if possible and allow extra travel time.
Traffic Being Diverted Amid Continued Chaos
By 3:55am, authorities began turning around vehicles on the QE2 Bridge to ease congestion. One of the Dartford Tunnels is currently handling diverted Essex traffic flowing into Kent by reversing the usual traffic direction – a rare and critical move to beat the gridlock.
Despite the Easter holidays, the disruption is hitting freight and long-distance drivers hard. The Dartford Crossing is one of the UK’s busiest motorway sections, with tailbacks stretching on both sides.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
Frustrated drivers took to social media to vent:
“Stuck just before the QE2 Bridge—traffic at a standstill, no idea what’s happening. Hope everyone is safe.”
“Police incident on the Dartford Crossing—avoid if you can, absolute chaos!”
No official timeline for reopening has been released. Police and traffic officials remain at the scene, assessing the situation and will issue updates as soon as possible.
Key Facts At a Glance
- Police called early this morning to a welfare incident on QE2 Bridge
- All clockwise M25 traffic currently held between Junction 31 and 1A
- Traffic diversion in place using Dartford Tunnels in reverse flow
- Severe congestion reported on A13, A282, and surrounding routes
- Drivers advised to avoid the area and expect significant delays
Stay tuned for continuous updates via National Highways, local radio, and traffic alerts.
