A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel censure from critics regarding the speed and management of the country's key government projects.
The crash took place on the trans-isthmus railway, a rail link developed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was designed to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving regional growth in the area.
“We will thoroughly investigate the reasons behind this tragedy,” affirmed the head of state.
The president confirmed that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in serious condition. The president added plans to go to Oaxaca to meet those involved.
Flagship Project of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature infrastructure project of the former leader, whose term finished the previous year. This venture was closely associated with his government's strategic goals for the southeastern region.
Another massive rail project from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the broader strategy to stimulate the economy of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Safety Concerns
The development of both rail lines was supervised by the army, marking a significant expansion of its duties in national projects. They were built at an accelerated pace, surpassing expectations to be partially inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this rushed timetable had also sparked significant concerns over construction quality.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This includes an previous collision this month when a train smashed into a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen several non-fatal derailments.
Demands for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the disaster, the leader of a primary political opposition urged an immediate suspension in the building and running of all similar projects.
This pause was suggested while awaiting a thorough safety audit. The party declared that the situation "requires prompt explanations."
In reaction, the head of state asserted that the train had been running in complete compliance with all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the development and running of these strategic undertakings.
