Commuters are bracing for disruptions over a four-day period due to upcoming strikes organized by the RMT union, sparking criticism and calls for action from Sadiq Khan.

The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) has announced that underground drivers will stage two 24-hour walkouts starting on Tuesday and Thursday. The industrial action stems from a disagreement over plans to reduce the working week to four days, with the RMT expressing concerns about increased fatigue and compromised safety.

Transport for London is urging the unions to reconsider the Tube strikes, cautioning passengers about potential significant service disruptions. While some lines will operate on reduced schedules, certain lines like the Piccadilly and Circle lines will be completely shut down, and there will be no service on specific sections of the Metropolitan and Central lines.

Shadow Transport Secretary Richard Holden criticized the situation, highlighting the impact on London and accusing the RMT of exerting undue influence. On the other hand, TfL’s chief operating officer, Claire Mann, emphasized the benefits of transitioning to a four-day work week for train operators, stressing that the proposed changes are voluntary and aim to align London Underground with industry norms.

Mann urged the RMT to halt the strike action to avoid inconveniencing Londoners and emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue. Customers are advised to stay informed about service disruptions and varying levels of service across different lines if the strikes proceed.