A deadly train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite opposition criticisms regarding the speed and handling of the country's key public works projects.
The crash occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a rail link built to join 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, intended to promote commercial progress in the area.
“We shall rigorously clarify the cause of this accident,” declared the country's president.
The leader confirmed that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The leader added plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those impacted.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone public works project of the immediate past president, whose time in office finished the previous year. This project was closely associated with his leadership's strategic agenda for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar train initiative from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economy of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Risks Apprehensions
The development of both train projects was overseen by the army, marking a dramatic increase of its role in national projects. They were executed at an fast-tracked speed, defying expectations to be at least partly opened before the end of that administration.
However, this fast-paced schedule had also fueled significant concerns over operational security.
- Sunday's derailment was the third event 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 seen several non-lethal derailments.
Calls for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the chief of a major opposition party called for an prompt halt in the building and running of all comparable projects.
This stoppage was requested while awaiting a full safety audit. The party emphasized that the tragedy "requires immediate answers."
In reaction, the head of state asserted that the train had been operating in total compliance with all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the development and running of these national initiatives.
