A fatal train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the speed and management of the country's major government projects.
The crash took place on the Interoceanic Train, a rail link developed to join the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We will rigorously clarify the reasons behind this tragedy,” declared the country's president.
The president confirmed that, of the around 250 individuals on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in serious condition. The president added plans to go to Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Flagship Project of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a central development scheme of the previous administration, whose time in office finished the previous year. This venture was closely associated with his administration's economic vision for the southern region.
Another ambitious train initiative from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the broader strategy to kickstart the economic fortunes of a relatively disadvantaged part of the country.
Project Execution and Safety Concerns
The building of both rail lines was supervised by the nation's military, marking a dramatic expansion of its role in national works. They were completed at an rapid rate, defying expectations to be at least partly opened before the end of that presidency.
However, this rushed timetable had also fueled significant questions over construction quality.
- Sunday's derailment was the third event on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
- This includes an previous crash this month when a train hit a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-fatal derailments.
Demands for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the disaster, the leader of a primary political opposition called for an prompt pause in the building and running of all comparable projects.
This pause was suggested until the completion of a comprehensive technical review. The party stated that the situation "calls for immediate answers."
In reaction, the head of state insisted that the train had been operating in complete accordance with all operational standards. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "diligent" in both the construction and management of these strategic initiatives.
