Commuters across the South of England are bracing for significant travel chaos as Southern Railway and Gatwick Express staff, represented by the RMT union, have walked out in a dispute over pay and working conditions. The strike, which began early this morning, has left many passengers stranded and forced to seek alternative transport options.
Why Are Rail Workers Striking?
The RMT union has accused Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), the operator of Southern and Gatwick Express services, of failing to offer a fair pay rise amid the rising cost of living. Union leaders argue that workers deserve better wages and improved conditions, particularly after years of stagnant pay and increased workloads.
"Our members have been pushed to the brink," said an RMT spokesperson. "They kept the railways running during the pandemic, and now they’re being told to accept real-terms pay cuts. That’s simply unacceptable."
Impact on Services
The industrial action has led to:
- Severely reduced services on Southern Railway routes
- Limited Gatwick Express trains, with some cancellations expected
- Overcrowding on alternative routes, including buses and the London Underground
British Transport Police have been deployed to manage crowds at key stations, including London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, where frustrated passengers have faced long delays.
What’s Next?
Negotiations between the RMT and GTR are ongoing, but no breakthrough has been reached. With further strikes threatened if demands aren’t met, passengers are advised to check travel updates before setting out.
"We regret the disruption," a GTR spokesperson said, "but we remain committed to finding a resolution that balances fair pay with the long-term sustainability of the railway."
