The Perils of Signal in the Underground: A Call for Consideration
This past weekend, while riding the District line, I encountered a situation that left me both frustrated and concerned about the future of our public transport experience. I had the unfortunate opportunity to confront a fellow passenger who seemed to possess little regard for social etiquette or those around them.
Picture this: the individual beside me was blasting music from a portable speaker, completely unaware—or perhaps indifferent—to the discomfort they were causing. Just when I thought the disturbance couldn’t get any worse, they initiated a FaceTime call, continuing to chat at full volume. Unable to contain my irritation, I voiced my annoyance. After all, why should I be subjected to their conversation?
In response to my request for them to use headphones, they cranked up the volume, dismissively claiming they weren’t bothering anyone. Their attitude was as if to say, “Look around; no one cares.” Unfortunately, this is becoming an all-too-familiar scene on public transport. Many commuters seem lost in their own worlds, scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, completely detached from the collective environment of the train.
There was a time when the respite of being deep underground, far from our screens and the noise of daily life, offered a welcome relief—a moment of quiet in our otherwise noisy lives. However, with Transport for London (TFL) planning to extend mobile connectivity to all underground stations, I fear that this temporary sanctuary will be lost.
The introduction of signal in the Underground may be well-intentioned, aimed at keeping passengers connected, but it raises important questions about public etiquette and consideration. Shouldn’t we be cultivating a transport culture that prioritizes respect for shared spaces? As we move towards an increasingly connected underground experience, let’s hope that it also encourages a renewed sense of awareness and mindfulness among passengers. After all, a little consideration goes a long way in making our commutes more enjoyable for everyone.