US railway workers' strike disrupts commuters

The Long Island Rail Road, or LIRR, the largest commuter rail system in North America, suspended all service on Saturday after union workers went on strike following failed contract talks with management.

The strike, the first on the LIRR in more than 30 years, disrupted transportation across the New York metropolitan area. US media reported that about 3,500 workers joined the walkout after negotiations over wages and working conditions failed to produce an agreement before the deadline.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which operates the system, said emergency measures had been put in place, including additional bus services and travel advisories urging commuters to work remotely if possible.

The LIRR connects New York City with Long Island and carries about 250,000 passengers on a typical weekday, making it the busiest commuter railroad in North America, according to the MTA website.