A fatal train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite critical opposition regarding the pace and handling of the country's major public works projects.
The crash took place on the Interoceanic Train, a route constructed to connect the Atlantic Ocean 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 regional growth in the area.
“We will thoroughly investigate what caused this incident,” declared the national leader.
The president announced that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in serious condition. The official stated plans to travel to Oaxaca to confer with those impacted.
Flagship Project of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the former leader, whose presidency finished the previous year. This venture was a hallmark of his administration's developmental agenda for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar rail project from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the wider plan to kickstart the economy of a comparatively less developed part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The development of both train projects was supervised by the nation's military, marking a significant increase of its responsibilities in public infrastructure. They were completed at an fast-tracked pace, beating expectations to be partially inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this fast-paced schedule had simultaneously sparked ongoing concerns over safety standards.
- Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an prior crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen several non-deadly derailments.
Calls for Audit and Pause
In the wake of the catastrophe, the head of a major opposition party demanded an urgent pause in the building and running of all similar projects.
This pause was suggested until the completion of a thorough safety audit. The party stated that the loss of life "demands prompt explanations."
In response, the national leader asserted that the train had been functioning in total compliance with all operational standards. Assurances were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the construction and running of these strategic projects.
