London Underground workers launched a five-day strike on Sunday, during which London Underground services will be almost shut down.
The London Underground workers in the UK launched a five-day strike starting from Sunday (September 7th), which is expected to paralyze the London Underground and have a huge impact on public transportation.
According to the strike action, London Underground trains will be almost suspended from Monday (8th) to Thursday (11th). The Elizabeth Line and above ground railway network bound for Heathrow Airport will operate normally, but some station services will be disrupted and trains may be very busy.
The Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT), representing workers in the UK transport industry, said that the shift system of the London Underground has had a negative impact on the health of employees, and they are demanding that Transport for London (TfL) shorten the weekly working hours from 35 hours to 32 hours.
Union Secretary General Eddie Dempsey said, "Workers are not seeking huge wages, but fatigue and extreme shift systems are serious issues that affect the health and well-being of our members
Transport for London stated that a 32 hour workweek is unrealistic and the authorities cannot afford the cost of doing so. However, they are willing to give workers a 3.4% raise and welcome further negotiations with unions on fatigue and scheduling issues.
Affected by another labor dispute, the Docklands Light Railway, which connects Canary Wharf with the City of London, will also be suspended on Tuesday and Thursday.
In addition to affecting the travel of the public and tourists, this strike has also led to the rescheduling of two concerts by British band Coldplay at Wembley Stadium, and American singer Post Malone has postponed two performances in London until later this month.
London Underground services are expected to resume normal at 8am local time on Friday (12th).
|