The two main Underground labor unions are at war. One side hopes for an increase in wages through negotiations & positive dialogue, while the other simply refuses to show up for work in an attempt to spark change through striking. The most agitating aspect of the whole situation is how much money the workers already make. Operators make up to £40,000 already - similar to a $70,000 salary back in the states.
What does all this mean? Well, the subway system is at a standstill while the fight rages on. A city of roughly 8 million people has lost it's primary mode of public transportation. The streets are packed with individuals rushing off to their daily grind and double decker buses are best comparable to massive cans of sardines. It is not a common occurance and could last into the weekend.
Instead of my daily commute of approximately 22 minutes by the tube, I now must walk 2.2 miles each day (roughly 45 minutes in foot traffic). A bus ride along the same route can take over 1 1/2 hours, so that's out of the question altogether. I have actually come to enjoy the lengthy stroll through town, however it is quite annoying in particularly crowded areas. If anything, it allows for healthy excersize and much desired fresh air. Who knows, maybe I'll say screw the tube altogether and keep on truckin' by foot for the rest of the trip...(riiiiiight)
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