A tragic train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the pace and execution of the country's major government projects.
The disaster took place on the Interoceanic Train, a rail link built to join the Atlantic and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to establish an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote economic development in the area.
“We will rigorously clarify the reasons behind this incident,” declared the country's president.
The leader confirmed that, of the around 250 individuals on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The leader noted plans to go to Oaxaca to confer with those affected.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a central infrastructure project of the former leader, whose time in office concluded the previous year. This rail line was a hallmark of his administration's economic agenda for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar rail project from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economic fortunes of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The building of both train projects was overseen by the army, marking a notable expansion of its duties in national projects. They were completed at an rapid rate, surpassing expectations to be partially inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this rushed timetable had also sparked ongoing apprehensions over operational security.
- Sunday's crash was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an previous crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen several non-fatal derailments.
Calls for Review and Suspension
In the wake of the catastrophe, the leader of a key rival party called for an prompt halt in the construction and operation of all similar projects.
This halt was requested pending a full independent investigation. The party declared that the tragedy "demands prompt explanations."
In response, the president asserted that the train had been operating in full adherence to all operational standards. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the development and running of these vital undertakings.
