UK: South Western Railway strike Easter weekend

Event

Members of the Rail, Maritime, and Transport Union (RMT) employed by the South Western Railway are planning to strike throughout Easter weekend. According to RMT, the strike will begin at 00:01 (local time) on Friday, March 30, and end at 23:59 on Monday, April 2. Additionally, London Euston station will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 1, with reduced services over the long weekend due to scheduled maintenance work.

Significant disruptions (reduced services, delays, overcrowding) are expected along the South Western Railway network during the strike and may impact travelers in southwestern Britain. Increased road traffic congestion is also possible if large numbers of commuters are forced to seek alternate means of transportation.

Context

The strike is being held to protest a British government request to begin driver-only train operations on the lines; currently, the lines employ both drivers and conductors (or guards) on each train.

Advice

Potentially impacted travelers are advised to confirm train timetables, allow additional time to reach their destinations, and be prepared for rail disruptions (e.g. be prepared to use alternative modes of transportation).