London Underground train drivers are set to launch a series of 24-hour strikes later this month after a dispute erupted over proposed changes to their working schedules.

The rail union National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) confirmed on Tuesday that the first strike will take place on March 24, marking the start of six planned walkouts.

At the heart of the conflict is a proposal by London Underground to restructure drivers’ schedules into a compressed four-day working week. Union leaders argue that the plan could lead to longer shifts and raise serious safety concerns.

RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said the changes risk increasing fatigue among drivers, potentially affecting both staff welfare and passenger safety.

“We are clear that these proposals raise serious concerns around fatigue, safety and work-life balance,” Dempsey said in a statement.

The union warned that strike action could be avoided if a negotiated agreement is reached, urging transport officials to revisit the plan before the first walkout begins.

“There is still time for London Underground to come up with a workable solution,” Dempsey added. “But if we cannot reach a settlement through negotiations, our members are prepared to take industrial action.”

The strikes could disrupt services across the London Underground network, which carries millions of passengers daily across London. Commuters are likely to face delays and cancellations if the dispute remains unresolved. Photo by Reveal at en.wikipedia.