Rising instances of graffiti on Tube trains, particularly affecting the Central and Bakerloo lines, have led to complaints from London residents directed at the transport authority.
One commuter expressed to Transport for London (TfL) that the carriages on the Bakerloo line have become “extremely filthy” and “blanketed” with graffiti.
In response to a Freedom of Information query, passengers inquired about the measures being taken to address this cleanliness issue.
A spokesperson for TfL stated that they strive to erase graffiti as promptly as possible, emphasizing that “offensive graffiti is prioritized for removal.”
They also mentioned: “In cases where graffiti is difficult to eliminate, efforts are made to cover it when feasible and it is cleaned during maintenance hours to ensure trains remain operational and to minimize delays for our customers.”
Earlier this month, TfL noted that a malfunctioning automatic train washer contributed to the situation, while also acknowledging an increase in vandalism incidents.
TfL explained that the washer breakdown “restricted our cleaning capabilities, as we could only wash trains manually, which takes significantly longer.”
They further added, “The track fault was fixed about two weeks ago, and we have since resumed normal operation of the train washer. All of our fleet has been washed on the outside, and the overall state of the fleet is starting to improve.
“Seats throughout the Underground fleet are brushed and inspected daily before and after service.”
Despite these efforts, TfL mentioned a notable rise in graffiti incidents, prompting City Hall to encourage the authority to implement “a zero-tolerance approach” towards vandalism.
Bassam Mahfouz, a Labour member of the London Assembly, shared concerns he heard from constituents in Ealing and Hillingdon who frequently ride the Central line.
“The recent spike in graffiti on Central line trains is alarming and expensive,” remarked Mr. Mahfouz.
“Londoners have come to expect, and deserve, a clean, safe, and dependable transportation network. Yet these defaced carriages are an eyesore and create a sense of insecurity among passengers.
“The Central line appears to be especially targeted. This situation is not only costing Londoners in terms of clean-up expenses but also diminishing pride in our city. To effectively combat this issue, implementing a zero-tolerance policy towards graffiti is essential.
“Only by doing so can we restore the Central line to the quality that passengers anticipate and ensure that London’s transportation system remains a symbol of pride rather than frustration.”
