TfL’s finances observed a significant decline in toll revenues since the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic. Sadiq Khan already announced that subway routes will have to halt in a few days. In addition to this, several tunnels and bridges will have to be closed bridges across the city. 

“Without a new, sustainable long-term funding deal there is a real risk of major projects being paused, cuts to services, trains falling into disrepair, and closures on major road networks,” the London mayor’s office explained in a statement.

Three measures have already been implemented in an attempt to balance the losses: an increase in the council tax, the expansion of London’s entrance fees zone, and the implementation of a new road tax. 

Mayor warns Tube line could shut if ministers fail to fund TfL

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has issued a dire warning that an entire Tube line could close if the Government does not grant TfL the emergency and long-term funding it needs… https://t.co/fURz1JYYAz

— CLondoner92 (@CLondoner92) November 30, 2021

However, recent reports published by London’s authorities reveal that this will definitely not be enough. 

In the meantime, the city’s transport officials have also warned that the program aimed at preventing road fatalities will also have to be scrapped. 

As London’s mayor and responsible for TfL, Sadiq Khan now has to rely on financial support from Westminster in order to prevent a disaster in the capital’s public transport. 

Cover photo: British Poles

Author: Sebastien Meuwissen