A deadly train derailment in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive censure from critics regarding the speed and execution of the country's key government projects.
The crash happened on the Interoceanic Train, a route developed to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to establish an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate what caused this tragedy,” declared the national leader.
The official reported that, of the approximately 250 passengers on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in critical condition. The official noted plans to visit Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Flagship Project of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a central infrastructure project of the former leader, whose presidency finished the year before. This project was a hallmark of his government's strategic vision for the southeastern region.
Another massive rail project from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the wider plan to revitalize the economy of a relatively less developed part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The construction of both railway systems was supervised by the army, marking a dramatic expansion of its duties in national infrastructure. They were completed at an fast-tracked speed, beating expectations to be at least partly opened before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had simultaneously fueled significant concerns over operational security.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
- This includes an prior crash this month when a train struck a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had a couple of non-lethal derailments.
Calls for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the leader of a key rival party called for an prompt pause in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This halt was proposed while awaiting a comprehensive safety audit. The party declared that the situation "calls for prompt explanations."
In reply, the president maintained that the train had been running in complete adherence to all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the construction and operation of these national undertakings.
