A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the pace and execution of the country's flagship government projects.
The accident took place on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line developed to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was intended to provide an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate what caused this incident,” affirmed the head of state.
The leader announced that, of the some 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The official stated plans to travel to Oaxaca to meet those involved.
Flagship Project of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the previous administration, whose term concluded the previous year. This rail line was closely associated with his administration's economic goals for the southern region.
Another ambitious rail project from that period, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the wider plan to kickstart the economic fortunes of a historically disadvantaged part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The building of both train projects was managed by the army, marking a notable expansion of its role in national projects. They were executed at an fast-tracked speed, defying expectations to be at least partly launched before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had also fueled ongoing concerns over operational security.
- Sunday's accident was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- 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 several non-deadly derailments.
Calls for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the leader of a primary political opposition demanded an urgent halt in the building and running of all similar projects.
This halt was requested pending a comprehensive technical review. The party stated that the tragedy "calls for prompt explanations."
In reply, the president maintained that the train had been functioning in total compliance with all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the development and operation of these vital projects.
