A deadly train derailment 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 speed and handling of the country's major public works projects.
The accident occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a rail link developed to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to provide an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We will thoroughly investigate the cause of this accident,” affirmed the head of state.
The president reported that, of the some 250 passengers on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in grave condition. The president stated plans to visit Oaxaca to confer with those involved.
Major Initiative of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the immediate past president, whose term ended the previous year. This project was a hallmark of his government's developmental agenda for the southeastern region.
Another massive train initiative from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the broader strategy to revitalize the economic fortunes of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The building of both rail lines was managed by the army, marking a dramatic expansion of its role in national works. They were built at an rapid pace, defying expectations to be at least partly opened before the end of that presidency.
However, this fast-paced schedule had concurrently fueled significant concerns over construction quality.
- Sunday's derailment was the third event on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
- This includes an prior accident this month when a train hit a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced two non-deadly derailments.
Demands for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the leader of a primary political opposition called for an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This pause was proposed until the completion of a full independent investigation. The party stated that the situation "requires prompt explanations."
In reaction, the president insisted that the train had been operating in full adherence to all security protocols. Assurances were given that the government would remain "accountable" in both the construction and operation of these national initiatives.
