London commuters brace for Tube strike and fare hike as disruptions loom

London commuters face significant disruptions as a Tube strike is set to begin at 6pm on Friday. The strike, involving 2,000 drivers represented by the Aslef union, could lead to little to no Tube service from November 5 to November 8, and again on November 12. Transport for London (TfL) is in talks with unions to resolve a pay dispute, but no formal negotiations have occurred recently. The RMT union is also involved, protesting against what it calls an inadequate pay offer. Additionally, the government announced a 4.6% fare increase for national rail services starting next March, which is expected to affect Tube fares as well. This fare hike comes amid ongoing cost of living challenges for Londoners.