A tragic train crash in the southern 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 flagship public works projects.
The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a rail link constructed to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to offer an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring economic development in the area.
“We will rigorously clarify what caused this accident,” affirmed the head of state.
The president reported that, of the some 250 individuals on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in serious condition. The official noted plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those affected.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the former leader, whose presidency ended the prior year. This project was intimately linked to his leadership's developmental agenda for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar train initiative from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the broader strategy to revitalize the economy of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The building of both rail lines was supervised by the armed forces, marking a notable growth of its duties in public infrastructure. They were executed at an fast-tracked pace, defying forecasts to be partially inaugurated before the end of that government.
However, this fast-paced schedule had simultaneously sparked significant questions over construction quality.
- Sunday's accident was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
- This includes an earlier crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen several non-fatal derailments.
Appeals for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the leader of a key rival party called for an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all similar projects.
This stoppage was suggested until the completion of a full technical review. The party stated that the loss of life "demands prompt explanations."
In reaction, the national leader asserted that the train had been running in total accordance with all security protocols. Commitments were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the development and operation of these vital undertakings.
