A fatal train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the pace and execution of the country's major public works projects.
The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Train, a route constructed to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was designed to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote commercial progress in the area.
“We will thoroughly investigate the reasons behind this accident,” affirmed the head of state.
The president reported that, of the approximately 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The president added plans to go to Oaxaca to confer with those affected.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone infrastructure project of the immediate past president, whose presidency concluded the previous year. This venture was a hallmark of his leadership's economic agenda for the southern region.
Another multi-billion dollar train initiative from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economic fortunes of a historically poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The building of both railway systems was managed by the nation's military, marking a dramatic increase of its role in national projects. They were built at an fast-tracked pace, defying expectations to be partially launched before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had concurrently raised ongoing questions over operational security.
- Sunday's crash was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an earlier crash this month when a train struck a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced a couple of non-deadly derailments.
Calls for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the disaster, the head of a major opposition party urged an urgent pause in the building and running of all such projects.
This stoppage was requested while awaiting a full safety audit. The party stated that the loss of life "calls for immediate answers."
In reply, the head of state maintained that the train had been running in complete accordance with all security protocols. Commitments were given that the government would remain "diligent" in both the development and operation of these vital projects.
