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London is on the verge of a transportation collapse as tube strikes have been announced to begin since Monday. The capital city’s underground transport system reportedly shall face substantial disturbances if the strikes turn effective. First among those to start the strike was the maintenance staff handling the Jubilee and Northern Lines. However, their action hardly had any impact on the system. The employees belong to the French engineering group, Alstom.

Meanwhile, a next has been announced by maintenance staff on all other lines which may threaten the system’s functioning especially if there arise any mechanical problems. A third strike is also set to begin by Rail, Maritime and Transport Union and the Transport Salaried Staffs Association, which includes drivers, station staff and signallers. The strike is projected as a protest against job cuts among the ticket-office staff who are reportedly unemployed due to the use of Oyster smart card system. The protesters warn that such a measure would be a compromise on the safety aspects of the stations. However, concerned authorities have confirmed that there would be no forced vacancies. The outcome of the strike as well as the effects are yet to be evaluated, but its success is largely dependent upon the volume of employees participating. The stand of rival Union Aslef would also be crucial factor.

However, the authorities have started initiating measures to tackle any possible difficulty by employing more buses and river services. Use of bicycles is also being encouraged.