London’s Tube network faces disruptions this week due to strikes impacting multiple lines. The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) initiated industrial action starting at midday on Tuesday, alleging that Transport for London (TfL) is imposing a new four-day work schedule.
According to RMT, its members will strike for 24 hours on both Tuesday and Thursday, citing concerns about the proposed compressed working week by TfL which they fear could compromise safety. Commuters are advised to expect disruptions on all lines post-midday today.
Service on the Piccadilly and Circle lines, the Metropolitan line between Baker Street and Aldgate, and the Central line between White City and Liverpool Street is expected to be unavailable. However, TfL confirmed that the Elizabeth line, DLR, London Overground, and tram services will operate normally during the strikes, although they are likely to be busier than usual.
TfL also noted that while most buses will run normally, seven Stagecoach-operated routes will be affected by a separate strike from Friday, April 24, 5 am, to Saturday, April 25, 5 am. The affected Tube lines include parts of the Bakerloo, Central, Jubilee, Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria, and Waterloo & City lines, with additional strike actions planned for the following day.
Specific bus routes, including 8, 25, 205, 425, N8, N25, and N205, will be disrupted by the strike. TfL mentioned that the 25 and 425 routes are expected to run nearly normal services throughout the strikes, while the N8 route will have a reduced service between Hainault and Liverpool Street. Other affected routes may experience severe delays and cancellations.
Union leaders expressed concerns about the impact of the proposed changes, stating that while the working week would be shorter in terms of days, longer shifts could lead to increased driver fatigue. They also raised issues about potential extensions to maximum driving time, early start or late finish requirements, short-notice shift changes, and reduced flexibility for depot transfers. TfL defended its proposals for a voluntary four-day week, emphasizing that it offers additional rest days without reducing contractual hours.
Claire Mann, TfL’s chief operating officer, outlined the benefits of the proposed four-day working week, highlighting improved reliability and flexibility for train operators. She stated that the changes are voluntary and aim to align London Underground’s working patterns with other train operating companies.
