Core Points - The London Underground is facing significant disruptions due to a major strike organized by the RMT union, marking the largest railway strike in 30 years, with around 10,000 employees participating [2][3] - The strike is a response to wages not keeping pace with inflation, which is projected to exceed 10% this year, driven by rising energy prices [2][3] - The strike has severely impacted public transport in London, with only 20% of train services operating, leading to an estimated daily economic loss of over £120 million for the city [3][4] Summary by Sections Impact of the Strike - The strike has led to the closure of most London Underground lines, causing significant inconvenience for commuters and affecting the overall city order [2][3] - The public transport system's reliance on the Underground highlights the critical role it plays in daily commuting and economic activities [3][4] Economic Context - The strike reflects broader operational pressures within the UK's public transport sector amid high inflation, with real wages for transport workers declining by 15% from 2015 to 2025, while living costs have risen by 50% [3][4] - The UK has invested only 0.9% of its GDP in rail and underground systems over the past decade, significantly lower than the EU average of 1.6% [4] Negotiation Dynamics - The union has demanded a minimum 7% pay increase, while employers have only offered a 2-3% raise contingent on changes to work practices and potential layoffs [4] - Public opinion on the strike is divided, with 37% supporting the action and 45% opposing it, indicating a complex social sentiment regarding the ongoing negotiations [4] Future Outlook - Although the strike has temporarily subsided and services are resuming, ongoing negotiations between the transport authority and the union remain contentious, with the potential for future strikes looming [4][5]