Commuters face severe disruption this week as London Underground drivers stage two 24-hour strikes. The industrial action, called by the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, will cause major delays across the network, with knock-on effects expected into the following mornings.
The strikes are scheduled for two separate days, a day apart. Transport for London (TfL) has warned passengers to plan journeys carefully, as services will be severely reduced or suspended on many lines. The RMT has not announced further strike dates beyond this week, but the dispute remains unresolved.
The RMT is protesting against the introduction of a voluntary four-day working week, which would see drivers work longer but condensed hours. The union cites safety concerns, arguing that longer shifts could increase fatigue and reduce safety. TfL insists the new rosters are voluntary and would not reduce contractual hours, allowing staff to continue a five-day pattern if they choose.
Disruption has already begun, with signal failures on the Jubilee line at Green Park causing no service between Finchley Road and Waterloo. The Elizabeth line is also affected by a points failure near Slough, while minor delays are reported on the Central, Circle, and Hammersmith lines. Passengers are advised to check TfL's website or app for real-time updates and consider alternative routes or modes of transport.
Previous strikes planned for May 19 and 21 were called off after last-minute negotiations. TfL said it was 'pleased' and looked forward to further talks. However, no such cancellation has been announced for this week's action. The RMT has accused TfL of imposing a 'fake four-day week', while the train drivers' union ASLEF has accepted the proposals, calling them 'exactly the sort of deal every trade union should be trying to achieve'.
The Centre for Economics and Business Research estimated that two 24-hour strikes in April cost the economy between £130 million and £250 million in lost working days. With millions relying on public transport, the impact of this week's strikes is expected to be significant.
