Massive Disruption on London's Tube System as Train Workers Go on Strike
In the heart of London, a significant disruption has hit the city's daily rhythm. The Transport for London (TfL) has warned of little to no service on the Underground (Tube) from Monday to Thursday, due to a strike called by the RMT trade union. This marks the first major Tube strike under the Labour government of Keir Starmer, who became prime minister last year.
The strike, which carries up to five million passengers a day, has left many commuters scrambling for alternative means of transportation. Thousands of people queued for crammed buses or chose to walk or cycle, while some, like Lauren, a construction sector admin worker, have resorted to walking several kilometers to work in central London instead of taking the Tube.
The RMT strike is in response to the union's battle for better pay and conditions. Tube drivers, along with signalling and maintenance workers, are participating in the strike after rejecting TfL's proposed 3.4% pay rise. Workers are also demanding a reduction in their hours during the strike.
TfL expressed disappointment over the strikes going ahead, stating that a reduction in the working week from Tube workers is unaffordable and impractical. The RMT spokesman, however, assured that the strike is not intended to disrupt small businesses or the public.
The disruption has also affected events in the city. Two shows by American singer Post Malone at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium were postponed due to the lack of Tube service. Live Nation UK stated that it's impossible to get people to the concert and home again safely without a Tube service.
The strike leader of the Tube strikes is represented by the Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (RMT) and the train drivers' union ASLEF, with ASLEF organizer Finn Brennan prominently mentioned as leading the London Underground drivers' strikes. The strike is happening due to TfL management's "intransigent approach" and their refusal to consider a small reduction in the working week.
The strike has caused inconvenience for many Londoners, including 17-year-old student Aida, who may potentially face a late arrival or disciplinary action due to the strike on her first day at college. Public sector worker Amita, who usually takes the Tube from central London Bridge Station, has had to endure a 45-minute walk to her office.
The strike comes at a time when Keir Starmer's government is currently languishing in the polls. Last week, deputy prime minister Angela Rayner was forced to quit after underpaying tax on her new house. The impact of the strike on the government's popularity remains to be seen.
The AFP copyright notice indicates that this article was written in 2025. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how TfL and the unions will resolve this impasse and restore normal service to London's Underground network.
