Tube Strikes Today: What You Need to Know About the RMT Strike in London

London's Underground network is grappling with its second day of extensive disruption this week as a 24-hour strike by RMT union members commenced at midday on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The industrial action, which follows a similar walkout on Tuesday, is expected to severely impact services across the capital until midday on Friday, April 24, with residual delays anticipated throughout the morning. Transport for London (TfL) has advised commuters to complete their journeys by 8 pm on Thursday, as services that do run will finish early.

Disruption Across the Network in London

The strike is expected to cause significant reductions in service across the entire Tube network. Passengers should expect less frequent trains, increased crowding, and potential difficulties boarding. Several lines are particularly affected, with no service anticipated on the Piccadilly and Circle lines. Additionally, parts of the Metropolitan line, specifically between Baker Street and Aldgate, and sections of the Central line, between White City and Liverpool Street, are also expected to have no service. On Friday morning, Tube services are not expected to commence before 7:30 am, further impacting early commuters.

Reasons Behind the Tube Strike

The core of the dispute lies in TfL's proposal to introduce a voluntary four-day working week for Tube drivers. The RMT union has voiced strong opposition to these plans, arguing that the "compressed" working week could lead to driver fatigue and potentially compromise safety standards. The union claims that TfL has failed to engage in meaningful negotiations, a sentiment echoed by RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey, who stated that TfL's approach was "not one which leads to industrial peace." Conversely, TfL maintains that the proposed changes are voluntary, would not result in a reduction of contractual hours, and aim to align London Underground working patterns with those of other train operating companies.

Tube Strikes Today: Commuter Impact and Travel Advice

The ongoing strike has forced thousands of Londoners to seek alternative modes of transport. While the Elizabeth line, DLR, London Overground, and the vast majority of bus services are operating as normal, they are experiencing significantly higher passenger volumes and are expected to be exceptionally busy. Travellers heading to Heathrow Airport via the Piccadilly line have been advised to use the Heathrow Express, Elizabeth line, or local buses instead.

Furthermore, a separate strike by Stagecoach bus drivers at the Bow garage is set to affect seven specific bus routes (8, 25, 205, 425, N8, N25, N205) in East and Central London from 5 am on Friday, April 24, until 5 am on Saturday, April 25. TfL continues to urge all passengers to check their journeys before travelling and allow for extra time.

With no further talks currently scheduled to resolve the dispute, the RMT has indicated that additional 24-hour strikes are planned for May and June. These ongoing industrial actions underscore the deep-seated disagreements between the union and TfL regarding working conditions and operational changes. The prolonged nature of the dispute suggests that London commuters may face continued uncertainty and disruption on the Underground network in the coming months.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 23, 2026 12:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).