London’s Transport System (TfL): History, Structure, Safety, and the Policies of Mayor Sadiq Khan

By Jannatul Ferdous Doly:

 

London is not only the capital city of the United Kingdom but also one of the world's leading economic and

cultural centres.

London is one of the busiest and most advanced transport cities in the world.

According to Transport for London reports, millions of people use public transport every day.

The city has a wide range of transport options, including buses, the Underground (Tube), Elizabeth line, cycling

lanes, trams, and the DLR. All of these systems are well-coordinated and managed under a modern transport

network, which is influenced by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.

According to transport for London data, the world’s first underground railway started in 1863, known today as

the London Underground. Currently, this network includes:

11 lines

Over 270 stations

Almost 400 km of track

Around 4–5 million passengers daily

London’s bus system is also very large:

Almost 9,000 buses

Over 700 routes

More than 19,000 stops

Around 3–4 million passengers daily

The iconic red double-decker bus is a symbol of London.

There are also several other important transport networks, such as:

London Overground

Docklands Light Railway

Elizabeth line

Travel between East and West London has become much easier, especially since the Elizabeth line opened on

24 May 2022.

As per Transport for London reports, around 8–10 million journeys are made on public transport every day:

Tube: 4–5 million

Bus: 3–4 million

Other services: 1–2 million.

London’s transport system also uses modern digital payment methods. The most popular option is the Oyster

Card. In addition, contactless bank cards and mobile payments are widely used.

For safety, the British Transport Police regularly patrol the network.

As per Metropolitan police service reports, stations have CCTV, security staff, and emergency support

systems.

Common crimes in the transport system include:

Pickpocketing

Mobile phone theft

Anti-social behaviour

Busy stations like Oxford Circus station and King's Cross St Pancras tend to have higher crime rates than

others.

According to reports, the most serious terrorist attack in London’s transport history was the 7 July 2005 London

bombings, where 52 people were killed. After this event, security measures were significantly strengthened.

According to the Greater London Authority, Mayor Sadiq Khan has been in office since 9 May 2016 and plays a

key role in transport policy.

One of his main focuses is reducing environmental pollution.

Transport for London states that Mayor has taken major steps to improve air quality. One of the most important

initiatives is the Ultra Low Emission Zone,

introduced in April 2019 and expanded in 2021 and 2023.

Another policy is the London Congestion Charge, which started in 2003.

The mayor has also contributed to:

Increasing electric buses

Expanding cycling lanes

Improving bike-sharing schemes like Santander Cycles.

However, some of his policies, especially the expansion of ULEZ, have been controversial. Some residents

believe it has increased their costs due to extra charges on vehicles.

Despite differing opinions, Sadiq Khan continues to manage London’s transport system effectively. His long-

term vision, especially promoting electric buses and expanding ULEZ, is helping to build a more sustainable

future.

Transport for London reports, London’s transport network is among the most sophisticated and heavily used

globally, handling approximately 8–10 million journeys every day.”

Led by Mayor Sadiq Khan, the system is becoming more modern, environmentally friendly, and safer.

His leadership and policy decisions are helping shape London into a well-organised, safe, and sustainable

transport city—serving as a model for the rest of the world.

Jannatul Ferdous Doly

Poet & Writer, London