A deadly railway accident 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 rapidity and execution of the country's key public works projects.
The accident took place on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line constructed to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to offer an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We are going to rigorously clarify the reasons behind this accident,” affirmed the head of state.
The leader confirmed that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The leader stated plans to visit Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Flagship Project of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the former leader, whose time in office ended the year before. This venture was closely associated with his leadership's developmental vision for the southern region.
Another ambitious rail project from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the wider plan to kickstart the economic fortunes of a comparatively disadvantaged part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The building of both train projects was managed by the armed forces, marking a dramatic expansion of its role in public projects. They were executed at an fast-tracked rate, surpassing expectations to be at least partly launched before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had simultaneously raised ongoing apprehensions over safety standards.
- Sunday's crash was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an prior accident this month when a train struck a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen several non-fatal derailments.
Calls for Investigation and Halt
In the wake of the disaster, the chief of a primary political opposition demanded an prompt halt in the development and management of all such projects.
This pause was suggested while awaiting a full technical review. The party emphasized that the situation "requires immediate answers."
In reaction, the president maintained that the train had been functioning in full compliance with all security protocols. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the development and running of these national undertakings.
