A fatal railway accident in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and handling of the country's key public works projects.
The crash happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line constructed to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to offer an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We shall rigorously clarify the cause of this accident,” affirmed the head of state.
The president reported that, of the around 250 passengers on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in critical condition. The president stated plans to go to Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a central infrastructure project of the previous administration, whose term ended the prior year. This project was closely associated with his administration's developmental goals for the southeastern region.
Another massive railway undertaking from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the wider plan to stimulate the economy of a historically disadvantaged part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The development of both train projects was overseen by the nation's military, marking a dramatic growth of its duties in civilian projects. They were built at an rapid speed, surpassing expectations to be at least partly opened before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had concurrently sparked significant concerns over construction quality.
- Sunday's accident was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This involves an earlier crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced several non-fatal derailments.
Demands for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the chief of a primary political opposition demanded an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all similar projects.
This halt was requested until the completion of a comprehensive independent investigation. The party emphasized that the loss of life "demands immediate answers."
In reaction, the head of state asserted that the train had been operating in full accordance with all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the construction and operation of these national undertakings.
