A fatal train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel critical opposition regarding the rapidity and management of the country's major infrastructure initiatives.
The accident took place on the trans-isthmus railway, a rail link developed to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was intended to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate the cause of this tragedy,” affirmed the national leader.
The official reported that, of the some 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in serious condition. The leader noted plans to visit Oaxaca to confer with those involved.
Major Initiative of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the former leader, whose time in office concluded the previous year. This rail line was intimately linked to his administration's developmental goals for the southeastern region.
Another massive railway undertaking from that time, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economy of a comparatively disadvantaged part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The building of both train projects was overseen by the armed forces, marking a significant increase of its duties in public works. They were completed at an rapid speed, defying forecasts to be at least partly inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this rushed timetable had also fueled ongoing concerns over construction quality.
- Sunday's crash was the third event on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This involves an previous accident this month when a train smashed into a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had several non-fatal derailments.
Appeals for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the head of a key rival party demanded an urgent suspension in the development and management of all such projects.
This pause was suggested while awaiting a comprehensive independent investigation. The party emphasized that the situation "calls for immediate answers."
In reply, the head of state maintained that the train had been functioning 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 strategic initiatives.
