Bendy bus crisis disrupts SE1 travel

Route RV1 is operated by non-articulated Mercedes Citaro vehicles

Since the Citaros were introduced 18 months ago three have been destroyed in service and a fourth burst into flames on delivery.

"Based on the results of the technical investigation into the Mercedes Benz Citaro bendy bus fire of last Saturday we have decided that certain modifications to all Citaro buses in London are necessary" says Hans Smits of manufacturer Evobus UK.

"In order not to take any risk these vehicles have been taken out of service until these modifications have been completed."

The modifications are expected to take a week to complete.

Routes without service include the 521 (Waterloo to London Bridge via Holborn) and the 453 (which serves Westminster Bridge and the Elephant and Castle).

A reduced service using double-deckers is operating on Route 507 (Waterloo to Victoria) and the Riverside RV1 service which links Covent Garden to Tower Gateway via the South Bank and Bankside.

• Transport for London