London Underground train drivers are planning to protest against ‘extreme noise levels’ by deliberately reducing speeds to below 50mph on the Victoria line.
The move comes after the RMT Union, which represents Tube drivers, voted for industrial action over the issue.
Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that the noise levels have “exceeded the legal limit” on the line which runs from Walthamstow to Brixton via King’s Cross.
The problem has reportedly intensified in recent weeks, causing frustration among affected drivers.
RMT general secretary Mick Lynch has called on TfL to ‘act accordingly’
PA
TfL stated that the noise levels experienced by drivers are not the same as those experienced by passengers. However, the issue has raised concerns about potential hearing damage and safety risks.
RMT general secretary Mick Lynch said: “The fact that members have voted by a massive majority for action over this matter should alert London Underground to the strength of feeling and act upon it accordingly.”
A TfL spokesperson responded: “We regularly measure noise levels across the Tube network, and recent results identified an increase in the level of noise exposure that Victoria line train operators are exposed to during the course of their shift.
“We have plans in place to address this through further improvements to the infrastructure along the Victoria line.”
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The Victoria Line at Stockwell
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TfL has encouraged trade unions to work with them to resolve the issue and avoid “unnecessary and disruptive industrial action”.
The noise issue is not limited to the Victoria line. According to the Aslef union, the Central, Northern and Jubilee lines are also affected.
TfL data revealed over 1,300 noise complaints were made against Tube services between January 2020 and August 2022.
To address the problem, TfL has spent nearly £30million on ‘rail grinding’ to decrease noise levels. Additionally, new technology called Delkor fastenings are being installed as part of TfL’s Deep Tube track renewal programme.
Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union general secretary Mick Lynch
PA
Despite these efforts, concerns persist. One customer warned TfL that it’s “only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or has long-lasting damage to their ears” due to the noise.
The noise issue is part of a broader context of industrial action on the London Underground. Aslef, another union representing Tube drivers, has announced 24-hour strikes on November 7 and 12. The RMT also plans to strike on separate days between November 1 and 8 over a rejected pay offer.
Aslef has supported RMT’s complaints about noise levels, criticising TfL’s “band-aid approach” to the problem. The union warned it may ballot its members for industrial action if the issues aren’t resolved.
Despite these challenges, London Mayor Sadiq Khan is reportedly “confident” that the Tube strikes won’t happen.