A fatal train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and handling of the country's key government projects.
The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line developed to link the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving regional growth in the area.
“We will thoroughly investigate what caused this tragedy,” affirmed the national leader.
The president confirmed that, of the some 250 individuals on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The leader added plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those affected.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the former leader, whose time in office concluded the previous year. This project was closely associated with his administration's developmental goals for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar train initiative from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the wider plan to kickstart the economic fortunes of a relatively disadvantaged part of the country.
Project Execution and Worries
The development of both train projects was managed by the armed forces, marking a significant increase of its role in public infrastructure. They were executed at an accelerated speed, beating expectations to be at least partly inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this fast-paced schedule had concurrently raised ongoing questions over operational security.
- Sunday's accident was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an previous accident this month when a train struck a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced a couple of non-deadly derailments.
Appeals for Audit and Pause
In the wake of the tragedy, the head of a major opposition party demanded an immediate pause in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This stoppage was suggested until the completion of a comprehensive technical review. The party stated that the tragedy "requires swift accountability."
In reaction, the national leader asserted that the train had been running in complete compliance with all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the development and operation of these national initiatives.
