No fewer than 13 passengers killed and 98 injured in train crash in the nation of Mexico.
A deadly train derailment in the southern state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive censure from critics regarding the pace and management of the country's flagship government projects.
The accident took place on the trans-isthmus railway, a rail link developed to link the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to offer an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate the reasons behind this accident,” stated the head of state.
The leader reported that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The president noted plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Major Initiative of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone development scheme of the immediate past president, whose presidency ended the year before. This rail line was a hallmark of his administration's strategic goals for the southern region.
Another massive train initiative from that period, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the wider plan to stimulate the economy of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Project Execution and Safety Concerns
The building of both rail lines was managed by the army, marking a notable expansion of its role in civilian works. They were built at an rapid rate, beating forecasts to be partially opened before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had also fueled persistent questions over operational security.
- Sunday's crash was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an earlier accident this month when a train smashed into a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had two non-fatal derailments.
Appeals for Audit and Pause
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the head of a major opposition party called for an prompt suspension in the construction and operation of all similar projects.
This stoppage was suggested while awaiting a full independent investigation. The party stated that the tragedy "calls for prompt explanations."
In reaction, the head of state insisted that the train had been running in full adherence to all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the development and operation of these strategic initiatives.
