Fire Breaks Out at London Recycling Center, Disrupts Rail Service

LONDON — A major fire broke out at a recycling center on Landmann Road in Bermondsey, southeast London, sending dense plumes of smoke over the capital. Flames spread to surrounding waste piles, prompting the deployment of 15 fire engines and roughly 100 firefighters from stations including Deptford, Old Kent Road and Greenwich. Firefighters used two 32-meter hydraulic ladders to attack the blaze from above. Officials said efforts to fully contain the fire would continue through the night. Train services between London Bridge and Dartford stations were suspended because the fire burned near British railway lines. National Rail and Thameslink announced cancellations and route changes until at least 20:45. The London Fire Brigade urged residents to stay away from the area, close doors and windows because of the dense smoke, extinguish any sparks near homes with water, and call emergency services if ignition occurs. No injuries have been reported. Crews continue working at the scene and the cause of the fire is under investigation.