A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive critical opposition regarding the speed and handling of the country's key government projects.
The disaster took place on the Interoceanic Train, a line constructed to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to establish an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring economic development in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate the cause of this incident,” stated the head of state.
The president announced that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in critical condition. The official noted plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those impacted.
Flagship Project of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone public works project of the previous administration, whose presidency ended the previous year. This venture was a hallmark of his government's economic goals for the southern region.
Another multi-billion dollar rail project from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the wider plan to kickstart the economy of a historically poorer part of the country.
Project Execution and Worries
The building of both rail lines was supervised by the army, marking a significant increase of its duties in civilian infrastructure. They were executed at an accelerated rate, defying predictions to be partially inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this accelerated timeline had simultaneously raised significant apprehensions over safety standards.
- Sunday's crash was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This involves an previous collision this month when a train hit a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-fatal derailments.
Appeals for Review and Suspension
In the wake of the tragedy, the head of a primary political opposition called for an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all similar projects.
This pause was proposed while awaiting a thorough independent investigation. The party stated that the tragedy "demands immediate answers."
In reaction, the head of state maintained that the train had been running in total accordance with all security protocols. Assurances were given that the government would remain "diligent" in both the development and operation of these vital initiatives.
