Tensions between Transport for London (TfL) and the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union have reached boiling point as Tube drivers prepare to go on strike for 48 hours from 16:00 on 23 April. The stoppage will bring disruption to thousands of passengers using the Central, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines.
The RMT's decision to take industrial action follows months of dispute over pay and working conditions. Union members claim they are facing a 'crisis of pay and workload', with many struggling to make ends meet despite TfL's offer of a 2% pay rise. The union has rejected this, arguing it is insufficient to keep pace with the rising cost of living.
TfL is bracing for significant disruption, warning passengers to plan their journeys in advance and check the TfL website for the latest information. With thousands set to be affected, commuters are advised to think carefully about their travel plans.
The RMT has vowed to take further action if its demands are not met, with union general secretary Mick Lynch describing the strike as a 'wake-up call' for the government and TfL. The stoppage is due to end at 16:00 on 25 April, but passengers should continue to check the TfL website for updates.
As London's transport network comes to a standstill, commuters are bracing themselves for another day of disruption. With services expected to return to normal by Saturday afternoon, the focus will shift back to finding a resolution to the long-running dispute.