Which Busses Are on Strike Today
You know that episode of Parks and Rec where Leslie Knope has to take four different buses to a town meeting? That’s you today. Channel your inner Leslie: be organized, carry snacks, and don’t yell at the driver (they’re not even there).
If you need a soundtrack, skip the angry podcasts. Put on some Stevie Wonder—his song “Bus Rider” is literally about getting where you need to go, even if the system fails you. Or, go full irony and blast the instrumental from Speed. Just don’t let the irony turn into actual rage.
What the Strike Actually Means
Behind every absent bus, there’s a human story. The drivers aren’t being dramatic; they’ve been working without a contract for six months. Their demands include better restroom access (a surprisingly big issue) and protection against route cuts. The union spokesperson said today, “We don’t want to strike. We want to drive. But we also want to come home safe.”
So while you’re annoyed, remember: this is temporary. Strikes in this city have lasted anywhere from 24 hours to 11 days. The longest one, in 1998, ended when a local bakery started donating free bagels to the negotiators. You can’t make this up.
Bus strikes begin in south and west London - BBC News