Rome - Italian bus, train and tram operators went on strike Friday with phased, four hour-long stoppages planned throughout the country.

Buses and trams stopped operating in Rome at around 0630 GMT while in Milan the strike began shortly afterwards.

Train drivers were also scheduled to go on strike with stoppages planned at different times in different parts of Italy.

Italy's main transport unions called the strike over a series of contractual disputes. (dpa)