Train services in the UK, specifically in south-east England, are expected to face major disruptions as train drivers, represented by the Aslef union, strike over a pay dispute. The strike, set to occur on Tuesday and continue for three days, will predominantly affect key commuter routes in and out of London. The industrial action, part of ongoing negotiations for better pay after a five-year stagnation, will also include a six-day overtime ban contributing further to the disruptions.

Several train operators will experience a complete halt or significant reduction in services. This includes c2c, Great Northern, Gatwick Express, and Southern services, among others. For instance, Southern will only operate a non-stop shuttle between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport. South Western Railway and Greater Anglia have similarly announced reduced services, with some lines operating minimally or not at all.

The Rail Delivery Group has invited Aslef for talks in hopes of resolving the dispute. However, the Department for Transport has also been involved, citing efforts to offer a substantial pay increase to the train drivers. Nonetheless, this dispute has led to the longest wave of strikes in the rail industry, causing considerable inconvenience to commuters and negatively impacting economic activities, particularly in the hospitality sector amid crucial trading periods.

Passengers are advised to check travel updates regularly and consider alternative arrangements as necessary during this period of extended industrial action.