London Tube Disruption Expected to Increase Demand Around Key Transport Hubs
There is a 24-hour RMT strike on the London Underground today, and it is already pushing passengers towards alternative transport. For PCO drivers working in the capital, demand around key hubs is likely to be higher than a normal Thursday.
Several lines are seeing no service or significant disruption. The Circle line, Piccadilly line, the Metropolitan line between Baker Street and Aldgate, and the Central line between White City and Liverpool Street are all affected. Other lines are running but with reduced services and likely delays throughout the day.
Heathrow is worth noting specifically. Piccadilly line services to the airport are not running, with rail replacement buses operating instead. Heathrow Express is still running normally, but passengers who would typically take the Tube will be looking for alternatives. Airport runs to and from Heathrow today could be particularly in demand.
It is worth keeping expectations realistic. The last strike had a more limited impact than anticipated, with over 60% of Tube drivers still reporting for work and most lines continuing to operate in some form. Today may follow a similar pattern. That said, buses, the Elizabeth line, Overground, and DLR are all expected to be significantly busier than usual, and passengers who want a guaranteed, comfortable journey will be looking for private hire.
The busiest periods are likely to be the morning commute and the evening peak. If you are planning your day, those windows are where the demand will be highest.
Resources:
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyp444zv1qo
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0ljyd03n88o
https://www.dw.com/en/london-tube-workers-go-on-two-day-strike/a-77382746
https://www.reuters.com/business/world-at-work/london-train-strikes-disrupt-travel-tuesday-thursday
