By Becky Chesson
Tube strikes have once again sent London into chaos, but for university students in Holloway, the disruption is hitting especially hard.
Services across the Transport for London network are severely reduced from midday on Tuesday, 21 April, through to Friday, 24 April, leaving many students struggling to get to lectures, part-time jobs, and exams.
Students at London Metropolitan University have been forced to find alternative routes, as Holloway Road station on the Piccadilly line has been affected by the disruption. Many have faced significantly longer journeys or higher travel costs, with buses becoming overcrowded, and some resorting to walking long distances to campus.
Anna Kyselova, a film student, said, “It has been very disruptive. I was supposed to record a podcast episode with my group for an assessment today, but half the group can no longer make it. It will also take me twice as long to get to campus.”
With exam season approaching, students say the disruption is adding extra pressure at a critical time in the academic calendar. Missed lectures and delays are making it harder to keep up with coursework and revision.
Eduardo Cosofret, a music student, said “it’s getting to the time where deadlines are approaching, we need the support of our lecturers in our workshops so not being able to make it to campus makes everything more stressful.”
Arsenal tube station. Image by Becky Chesson
Tube drivers who are members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) are taking industrial action over Transport for London’s proposed four-day working week, which would include longer shifts. The RMT argues that extended working days could lead to fatigue and compromise safety.
Transport for London has advised passengers to check before travelling and use alternative routes where possible, but many students say the options are limited.
With further strike dates planned later this year, students are concerned about the ongoing impact on their studies and daily routines.
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