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 pace and management of the country's flagship government projects.
The accident took place on the Interoceanic Train, a rail link constructed to join the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was intended to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote commercial progress in the area.
“We will rigorously clarify the cause of this tragedy,” stated the country's president.
The official announced that, of the around 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The president noted plans to travel to Oaxaca to confer with those affected.
Flagship Project of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone development scheme of the immediate past president, whose time in office ended the prior year. This venture was closely associated with his leadership's economic vision 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 kickstart the economic fortunes of a relatively less developed part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The building of both railway systems was supervised by the nation's military, marking a notable expansion of its responsibilities in national infrastructure. They were built at an rapid speed, surpassing forecasts to be partially opened before the end of that presidency.
However, this rushed timetable had also raised significant apprehensions over safety standards.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an previous crash this month when a train struck a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-deadly derailments.
Demands for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the leader of a primary political opposition called for an immediate halt in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This pause was suggested pending a full independent investigation. The party stated that the tragedy "demands immediate answers."
In reply, the president maintained that the train had been running in complete adherence to all security protocols. Commitments were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the development and running of these national projects.
