Massive rail strike set to cause nationwide travel chaos and disruption

Disruption Expected Across the Country

Fresh travel chaos is expected for rail passengers as thousands of workers from the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union go on strike over pay, jobs, and conditions. The strike action will result in wide variations of services across the country, with trains starting later and finishing earlier than usual. Some areas will have only half of the train services running, while others will have no services at all. The disruption is expected to affect services on Friday evening and Sunday morning as well. Picket lines will be set up outside railway stations across England, with workers receiving strong support from the public.

Passenger Advice and Union Demands

Passengers have been advised to check their travel arrangements beforehand, as the strike will cause disappointment, frustration, and financial strain for tens of thousands of people. The Rail Delivery Group, representing train operators, has apologized for the inconvenience caused and understands the impact on individuals and businesses. The RMT general secretary, Mick Lynch, stated that striking rail workers are still waiting for an invitation back to the negotiating table, emphasizing that the issues remain the same - job cuts, redundancies, and closures. The union is also demanding a pay rise after four years and opposing the proposed closure of ticket offices.

Government and Operator Response

The government and train operators have been blamed by the RMT for refusing to negotiate, after the union rejected a below-inflation offer. The RMT is also opposing the planned closure of ticket offices, which it sees as a cover for redundancies. The Department for Transport has stated that the government has listened to the rail unions and facilitated improved offers on pay and reform, urging union leaders to put these offers to their members for resolution. The strike will be followed by two week-long overtime bans by train drivers in Aslef, further impacting services. TransPennine Express has warned passengers to expect short-notice cancellations during the strikes.