Women and girls face "unacceptable levels" of violence and harassment on London's transport network, City Hall has warned, as new figures expose the scale of abuse plaguing buses, trains and the Underground.
The assessment reveals that sexual harassment, unwanted attention and serious assaults have become routine experiences for female passengers across the capital's transport system. Hate crimes targeting people based on race, religion, sexuality, disability or transgender identity are also widespread, creating what officials describe as an unsafe environment for vulnerable groups.
Current safety measures are failing to protect passengers or deter offenders, the report concludes. The findings pile pressure on Mayor Sadiq Khan and Transport for London to deliver immediate improvements to passenger safety.
The revelations will likely heighten existing fears among Londoners about travelling, particularly during quieter periods or on less busy routes. Many passengers may now reconsider their use of public transport, potentially undermining confidence in the capital's transport network.
City Hall is expected to face demands for increased police patrols, better CCTV coverage and improved reporting systems for victims. Campaigners will also push for awareness programmes targeting both perpetrators and bystanders, aiming to create a culture where such crimes face zero tolerance and consistent prosecution.