Delays, disruption, drudgery hit London commuters

In this Monday, Dec. 26, 2011 file photo, Underground trains are parked during a 24-hour strike by train drivers over public holiday pay, at Mordern depot, south London. Millions of commuters face travel woes as workers at London’s underground transport network, the Tube, prepare to go on strike. A walkout is scheduled to start later Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2104, through to Thursday, and a second one is due Feb 11-13. AP/Sang Tan, File

LONDON — London commuters are facing long delays and massive disruptions after subway workers walked off the job to protest upcoming job cuts.

Long lines began forming at bus stops before dawn on Wednesday as travelers sought alternative means of transport. Roads also were more congested than usual.

Unions serving the London Underground, known as the Tube, began their 48-hour protest late Tuesday, tossing the morning commute into disarray.

Poor weather was also predicted for later Wednesday, risking flooding, landslides and falling trees on rail lines.

London's mayor Boris Johnson urged unions to return to talks, while union leaders accused the mayor of refusing to meet them to discuss their grievances.

Another strike is planned for next week.

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