A fatal train derailment in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and handling of the country's key government projects.
The disaster took place on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a route developed to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was intended to provide an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving economic development in the area.
“We are going to thoroughly investigate the cause of this accident,” stated the country's president.
The leader confirmed that, of the approximately 250 people on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in critical condition. The president noted plans to go to Oaxaca to speak with those impacted.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the former leader, whose term concluded the year before. This venture was intimately linked to his government's economic goals for the southern region.
Another massive rail project from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economy of a historically disadvantaged part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The development of both railway systems was managed by the armed forces, marking a significant growth of its duties in national projects. They were completed at an accelerated pace, beating expectations to be partially inaugurated before the end of that government.
However, this fast-paced schedule had also raised significant apprehensions over operational security.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an previous collision this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced several non-deadly derailments.
Demands for Audit and Pause
In the wake of the tragedy, the leader of a major opposition party demanded an urgent pause in the development and management of all such projects.
This stoppage was suggested until the completion of a full safety audit. The party stated that the loss of life "demands prompt explanations."
In response, the president insisted that the train had been running in total accordance with all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the construction and management of these national initiatives.
