I'm Lilla, and I'm a frequent commuter in London. My journey used to be time to read, think, or just sit in peace.

Not any more. More and more people play music, videos and more out loud on their phones, without headphones. Now I contend with overlapping streams of unwanted noise, and it has added immense stress to my journeys. My anxiety levels have noticeably increased.

I dread asking people to lower their volume. When I do, the response is often hostile or aggressive. That leaves me and others feeling even more uncomfortable and unsafe.

Most passengers feel the same. Ofcom, YouGov and Transport for London have all published polls showing the vast majority of people dislike it. Unwanted noise isn't just irritating either. The World Health Organization has highlighted noise pollution as a growing concern in cities, and studies link it to stress and raised blood pressure.

The government has just opened the door. On 19 October 2026 Andy Burnham announced that local authorities in England can use new powers to fine people up to £100 for playing loud music on buses. The rules still need sign-off from the Transport Secretary, and unions and passenger groups have already asked who will enforce them.

Local transport authorities can act on this now. A big, public petition of passengers backing it shows them there is real demand, and makes it much harder to leave the powers sitting on a shelf.

I'm calling on local transport authorities to:

• Use the new powers to bring in fines on every bus in your area, and fund officers to enforce them
• Put clear signs on trains, buses and at stations
• Run a public campaign on headphone use and respect for shared spaces

Please sign and share this petition. Let's make our commutes peaceful once again.