A STRIKE by London Underground workers is causing travel mayhem, although some Tube services are running despite the action.

Transport for London said services are operating on more than half of lines, with services described as "good" on the Northern Line and "decent" across the Jubilee Line.

But dozens of Tube stations across the capital are closed, forcing many people to drive to work, leading to heavier than usual traffic.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union said the strike is being solidly supported, and clashed with LU over the number of Tube trains running, claiming only a limited number of services are operating.

The union also accused London Mayor Boris Johnson of "sabotaging" efforts to resolve the dispute.

But Mr Johnson said the strike was "unnecessary and misery-making" for travellers, and urged the union to return to the negotiations.

"The two sides are extremely close - it is essential that people of goodwill get around the negotiating table," he added.

The 48-hour strike started at 7pm on Tuesday after last-ditch talks over pay, jobs and disciplinary issues broke down.

The strike will cause disruption until Friday morning, and will lead to huge problems for fans travelling to Wembley on Wednesday night for England's World Cup game with Andorra.

Transport for London (TfL) has laid on extra buses, taxi sharing at major rail stations, free river services and guided commuter cycle routes in a bid to help people travel around the capital.

© Press Association 2009