A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the pace and handling of the country's major public works projects.
The crash took place on the Interoceanic Train, a route built to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was designed to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving regional growth in the area.
“We shall rigorously clarify the reasons behind this tragedy,” declared the head of state.
The president confirmed that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The official added plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those impacted.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a central infrastructure project of the previous administration, whose term ended the year before. This project was closely associated with his administration's economic vision 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 comprehensive effort to stimulate the economic fortunes of a historically less developed part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The building of both railway systems was managed by the armed forces, marking a dramatic expansion of its duties in national infrastructure. They were executed at an rapid rate, beating expectations to be partially launched before the end of that administration.
However, this accelerated timeline had concurrently raised significant questions over construction quality.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This involves an earlier collision this month when a train hit a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced a couple of non-lethal derailments.
Calls for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the head of a major opposition party called for an immediate halt in the construction and operation of all similar projects.
This stoppage was requested while awaiting a thorough technical review. The party emphasized that the tragedy "calls for swift accountability."
In reply, the head of state maintained that the train had been running in complete compliance with all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the construction and running of these vital undertakings.
