WATCH: Surrey's Commissioner urges calm as M25 fully closes due to multi-vehicle accident

The M25 motorway's anti-clockwise stretch between Junction 30 in Thurrock and Junction 29 in Upminster has been completely shut down this morning after a serious multi-vehicle collision. Emergency services, including Essex Police and National Highways Traffic Officers, have been deployed to manage the scene and traffic, as well as provide assistance. Motorists are experiencing significant delays, with vehicles reportedly backed up to Junction 25, about 24 miles away from the incident site. The collision, reported around 8:50 AM, involved three vehicles, resulting in injuries and at least one person trapped inside their vehicle. Emergency responders successfully freed the trapped individual, and treatment on-site was provided to the injured parties. National Highways has advised drivers to expect long delays and suggested alternative routes to minimize inconvenience. A diversion route has been established, directing motorists to re-route off the main highway and onto local roads to avoid the blockage. Normal traffic conditions are expected to be restored between 11:30 AM and 11:45 AM today. This incident underscores the ongoing concerns regarding road safety on the M25, especially given the high volumes of traffic typical of this key route. The backup and resulting disruption highlight the need for heightened awareness and adherence to driving regulations, particularly during peak travel times. As authorities manage the current situation, they advise all drivers to remain vigilant and patient, especially as diversions might leave them on less familiar routes. In a broader context, incidents like this remind us of the importance of road safety campaigns. The Vision Zero initiative in Essex aims to eradicate road deaths by 2040, which is a commendable ambition. However, achieving this goal requires concerted efforts not just from law enforcement but also from drivers who must commit to safe driving practices, such as avoiding distractions and adhering to road signs. This article has been analyzed and reviewed by artificial intelligence for accuracy and relevance.