Transport for London (TfL) has cautioned commuters of significant disruptions to Tube services during two upcoming 24-hour strikes by drivers, with little to no service expected on 8 April.
Members of the Aslef union are set to walk out in protest over terms and conditions, prompting London Underground services to commence later than usual on 9 April as well.
A subsequent 24-hour strike is scheduled for 4 May.
Nick Dent from London Underground urged Aslef to continue dialogue to avert strike action, emphasizing the inconvenience it poses to passengers. He advised travelers to check for updates before embarking on their journeys, anticipating crowded services and advising extra time for travel.
During strike days, any Tube trains operating are likely to be limited to peak hours and shuttle services connecting suburbs with bus or rail interchanges. Disruption is expected to persist on subsequent days, with normal service not resuming until mid-morning.
Although the Elizabeth line, London Overground, and DLR are not affected by the strikes, they are anticipated to experience heightened demand and potential last-minute adjustments.
Finn Brennan from Aslef cited London Underground's failure to provide assurances against unilateral changes to members' terms and conditions as the reason behind the industrial action. Despite prior commitments to halt plans for substantial alterations to drivers' working conditions, management has reportedly established a team preparing to implement these changes. Proposed adjustments include longer shifts and the removal of existing working agreements in the name of flexibility and efficiency. Photo by tompagenet (Tom Page), Wikimedia commons.