PASSENGERS on 80 of London’s Tube platforms are at “high risk” of being dragged into tunnels by moving trains without drivers noticing, a union warned yesterday.

Drivers are told to check in-cab CCTV and platform mirrors before starting their trains, but at as many as 190 platforms across the Tube network their view is obstructed at busy times, putting passengers at some risk.

London Underground requires station staff to attend to platforms when the normal systems are not adequate but drivers’ union Aslef says bosses are “refusing” to adequately staff platforms, in breach of their own rule book.

Aslef Underground organiser Finn Brennan said: “With the huge increase in passenger numbers, coupled with cuts in staffing, the Underground is starting to reach breaking point.

“Safety has to remain the priority. Reduction in staff numbers means that London Underground are unwilling to provide adequate platform staff to comply with their own safety rules.”

The highest-risk platforms are all on the Bakerloo, Central, Waterloo & City, Victoria, Jubilee, Northern and Piccadilly lines, where tunnels are far deeper than on other lines.

Accidents with passengers dragged by a moving train happen about five times a year. A woman was injured at Clapham South station in March when her coat was caught in closing doors. Aslef said her death was only prevented by prompt action by the driver.