A fatal train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive censure from critics regarding the speed and execution of the country's major public works projects.
The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a route constructed to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to offer an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring commercial progress in the area.
“We shall rigorously clarify what caused this accident,” stated the country's president.
The official reported that, of the some 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The president stated plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those impacted.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the former leader, whose term finished the prior year. This project was closely associated with his leadership's strategic agenda for the southern region.
Another ambitious rail project from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the broader strategy to revitalize the economic fortunes of a comparatively poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The development of both rail lines was managed by the armed forces, marking a significant expansion of its duties in civilian works. They were completed at an accelerated speed, defying forecasts to be partially inaugurated before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had concurrently raised persistent apprehensions over safety standards.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an prior accident this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had two non-fatal derailments.
Calls for Investigation and Halt
In the wake of the catastrophe, the head of a major opposition party urged an prompt pause in the development and management of all comparable projects.
This halt was proposed until the completion of a thorough safety audit. The party stated that the loss of life "demands prompt explanations."
In reply, the president asserted that the train had been functioning in total adherence to all operational standards. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "diligent" in both the development and operation of these vital initiatives.
