‘More pigeons than people’: Empty train stations across the UK as rail strike cripples services

Deserted platforms and packed double-deckers on the first day of train strike

Tuesday 21 June 2022 17:18 BST

Half of Britain’s rail lines are closed today as members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers ( RMT ) and Unite strike over pay, jobs and conditions. (PA/SWNS)

Your support helps us to tell the story

Support Now

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Train stations across the UK have been deserted on the first day of major rail strikes.

Half of Britain’s rail lines were closed on Tuesday as members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) and Unite stage action over pay, jobs and conditions.

Usually busy stations such as London Euston and London Paddington were all but empty save for union picket lines outside.

Many commuters are believed to be working from home rather than travelling to offices, as the strike is set to continue on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch warned that the dispute could continue for months, adding: “It is clear that the Tory Government, after slashing £4 billion of funding from National Rail and Transport for London, has now actively prevented a settlement to this dispute.”

The Department for Transport disputed Mr Lynch’s claims, adding that it has cost taxpayers about £600 per household to keep the railway running during the coronavirus pandemic.

Here’s a look at the all-but-empty stations across Britain this morning: