London thrown into travel chaos as Underground strike begins

Commuters and tourists face severe delays as multiple Tube lines are suspended or reduced.

London's transport network is facing major disruption as Tube drivers begin a series of 24 hour strikes, bringing parts of the Underground to a standstill.

Tube strike begins

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union have walked out from noon on Tuesday (21.04.26), with further strike action planned for Thursday (23.04.26). The industrial action is expected to cause widespread delays across the capital, with disruption starting earlier in the day and continuing into the evening after services resume.

According to Transport for London, services will only begin recovering from midday on Wednesday, leaving commuters and tourists facing several days of reduced operations.

The Piccadilly and Circle lines are set to be completely suspended, while sections of the Metropolitan and Central lines will also be affected. Other lines are expected to run with reduced services for at least four days.

The strike is part of an ongoing dispute between TFL and the RMT union over proposed changes to working patterns.

TFL has offered Tube drivers the option of a four day working week, reducing hours from 36 to 35 per week, but requiring longer shifts on working days. Union leaders have rejected the proposal, arguing that extended shifts could increase fatigue and compromise safety.

The London Overground, national rail services, the Elizabeth line, the Docklands Light Railway and tram services are all running as normal, although they are expected to be significantly busier than usual.

London buses are also operating as normal, but passengers have been warned to expect crowded conditions as travellers seek alternative routes across the city.

Passengers are being advised to plan ahead, allow extra time for journeys and consider alternative travel options where possible as the strike action continues.