A fatal train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the speed and execution of the country's major government projects.
The crash happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a route constructed to join the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to provide an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate the cause of this tragedy,” affirmed the head of state.
The official confirmed that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in serious condition. The president noted plans to visit Oaxaca to speak with those impacted.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the former leader, whose time in office finished the previous year. This rail line was closely associated with his government's strategic agenda for the southeastern region.
Another massive rail project from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the wider plan to revitalize the economy of a historically disadvantaged part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The construction of both railway systems was supervised by the nation's military, marking a dramatic expansion of its role in national projects. They were executed at an accelerated pace, beating predictions to be partially opened before the end of that administration.
However, this fast-paced schedule had concurrently sparked persistent apprehensions over construction quality.
- Sunday's accident was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
- This includes an earlier crash this month when a train struck a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced two non-lethal derailments.
Calls for Review and Suspension
In the wake of the tragedy, the chief of a key rival party called for an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This pause was requested until the completion of a full independent investigation. The party stated that the situation "calls for swift accountability."
In reply, the president asserted that the train had been running in complete compliance with all operational standards. Promises were given that the government would remain "diligent" in both the construction and management of these strategic undertakings.