London commuters are facing chaos on the transport network after talks to avoid a strike on the Underground broke down.

City mayor Boris Johnson promised extra buses and a free river shuttle service, in an effort to keep the city moving while the Tube is closed for two days.

And in e-mails sent to season ticket holders, Richard Parry, London Underground's Managing Director, encouraged travellers to consider cycling or walking instead.

Negotiations between transport workers' union the RMT and London Underground managers collapsed after ten hours of talks.

The RMT was demanding a 5 per cent pay rise and firmer guarantees that there will be no compulsory redundancies.

The strike is now due to begin at 6.59 on Tuesday and continue for 48 hours.

Oyster card holders will be able to use their cards on overground rail services for which they are usually invalid.

Transport for London, the capital's transport authority, promised extra buses, taxi sharing at major rail stations, escorted commuter cycle rides, additional cycle parking and a free River shuttle service.

Mr Johnson, said: "I am determined to do as much as is humanly possible to ease the journeys of the millions of Londoners whose lives may be disrupted if strike action takes place.

"The plans we are setting out call for a team effort over the next few days by everyone in this great city to ensure we keep the capital running.

"The myriad of organisations and individuals that have already agreed to lay on free services, lead cycle rides, drive extra services and marshal shared taxi ranks exemplifies the united approach we will need. Londoners can be assured a tremendous amount is being done to keep them moving if a strike does happen."

Mr Parry told passengers: "A wide range of alternative transport is available and passengers should consider using the Bus, Overground, DLR and River services.

"Cycling or walking will also be practical options for many."

TrackBack URI for this entry

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed

Name

Website (optional)

Comment

smaller | bigger

Subscribe via email (registered users only)

Add Comment