A briefing to emergency planners said commuters warned London’s transport system could be “rapidly overwhelmed” if social distancing after the coronavirus lockdown was maintained, according to the BBC. The London Strategic Co-ordination Group (SCG) said the capacity of the Tube and buses would be cut to 15 percent and 12 percent respectively compared with normal levels if a two-metre space between passengers is enforced.

Police could also be called on to manage crowds and enforce restrictions after lockdown measures are lifted.

The briefing, which contained a number of scenarios, warned lifting lockdown measures could put more pressure on the police to manage crowds, enforce restrictions and respond to an increase in crime levels.

The report warned London’s transport network would need three to four weeks to prepare.

The lockdown was announced on March 23 and is next due to be reviewed on May 7.

Commuters have currently been asked to avoid travel if possible or to use the tubes at quieter times in the day.

A spokesman for London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “The easing of lockdown restrictions will undoubtedly pose serious challenges around maintaining social distancing, particularly in London with our high population density and busy public transport network.

“Life simply won’t be returning to what it was before, and it is vital that the Government now has an open and honest conversation with the public about how we’ll all have to play our part ensuring we maintain appropriate social distancing in all aspects of our daily lives.

“Whether it’s schools, construction sites or other industries having to stagger their opening hours, or restrictions on the use of the public transport, no options should be off the table.

“That’s why it is essential we are fully prepared as a country and a city before the lockdown is eased, with a comprehensive package of measures in place to ensure people’s health is protected.”

A London SCG spokesman told the BBC it is important emergency planners “understand all the implications and the impact that any changes to lockdown measures could have on individual organisations and the wider public”.

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