London Underground ridership fell by 41% during Tuesday's transit strike, according to Transport for London (TfL), as commuters turned to other transport options ahead of another planned walkout on Thursday.
The industrial action led to a significant shift in commuting patterns across the capital.
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While Tube stations saw lower traffic, TfL reported a 5% increase in bus passengers, a 9% rise on the London Overground, and a 19% jump on the Elizabeth line.
Despite the disruption, over 60% of Tube drivers reported for duty on Tuesday. Automated fare data showed overall travel across the city remained relatively resilient.
"Oyster and contactless card taps were only down by around 10% across the whole day, showing that Londoners and visitors were still able to travel despite the strike action," a TfL spokesperson said.
TfL thanked commuters for navigating the disruptions and addressed the union's concerns over scheduling changes, describing the proposed shifts as voluntary.
"We continue to urge the RMT to work with us to resolve their questions on the proposed four-day week and to suspend any future action while that work is completed," the TfL spokesperson added.
The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) Union defended the strike, citing high participation among members.
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The dispute stems from accusations that TfL failed to provide safety and scheduling safeguards for drivers.
"The action was strongly supported by RMT members with well attended picket lines at Tube stations and depots," the RMT said.
Union representatives expressed willingness to resume negotiations.
"We are available at any time for talks to try to find a negotiated settlement and expect to meet the employer next week," an RMT spokesperson said.
A second 24-hour strike by RMT members is scheduled for Thursday, from 00:01 to 23:59 BST.
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TfL expects severe service suspensions on the Circle line, Piccadilly line, Metropolitan line between Baker Street and Aldgate, and Central line between White City and Liverpool Street.
