A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite censure from critics regarding the rapidity and management of the country's key infrastructure initiatives.
The crash occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a line built to link the Atlantic and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was designed to provide an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring economic development in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate what caused this incident,” stated the head of state.
The leader reported that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The official added plans to travel to Oaxaca to meet those involved.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone development scheme of the previous administration, whose presidency ended the previous year. This rail line was a hallmark of his administration's strategic goals for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar railway undertaking from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the wider plan to kickstart the economic fortunes of a historically poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The construction of both rail lines was supervised by the nation's military, marking a notable expansion of its role in national works. They were completed at an accelerated rate, defying forecasts to be at least partly opened before the end of that presidency.
However, this rushed timetable had concurrently fueled ongoing questions over operational security.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
- This includes an previous crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen two non-deadly derailments.
Demands for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the chief of a primary political opposition urged an prompt suspension in the construction and operation of all comparable projects.
This halt was proposed while awaiting a thorough technical review. The party stated that the tragedy "demands prompt explanations."
In reaction, the head of state maintained that the train had been running in full accordance with all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would remain "responsible" in both the development and running of these national undertakings.
