A deadly train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive censure from critics regarding the speed and execution of the country's major public works projects.
The crash occurred on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line developed to join the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to offer an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, intended to promote economic development in the area.
“We will thoroughly investigate the cause of this tragedy,” stated the head of state.
The official confirmed that, of the around 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The official stated plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone infrastructure project of the previous administration, whose presidency concluded the year before. This rail line was closely associated with his government's developmental agenda for the southern region.
Another multi-billion dollar train initiative from that period, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to revitalize the economy of a comparatively disadvantaged part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The development of both railway systems was managed by the army, marking a dramatic increase of its duties in national infrastructure. They were built at an rapid pace, defying expectations to be at least partly opened before the end of that government.
However, this accelerated timeline had simultaneously fueled ongoing apprehensions over operational security.
- Sunday's crash was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This includes an previous collision this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had a couple of non-fatal derailments.
Appeals for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the leader of a major opposition party called for an prompt halt in the construction and operation of all similar projects.
This halt was proposed until the completion of a full independent investigation. The party stated that the loss of life "calls for swift accountability."
In reply, the national leader maintained that the train had been functioning in complete compliance with all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would remain "responsible" in both the development and operation of these national undertakings.
