A tragic railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and execution of the country's flagship government projects.
The accident occurred on the trans-isthmus railway, a line developed to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to offer an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving regional growth in the area.
“We will meticulously determine the reasons behind this tragedy,” stated the head of state.
The official reported that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in grave condition. The official stated plans to visit Oaxaca to confer with those involved.
Key Undertaking of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone infrastructure project of the former leader, whose time in office concluded the prior year. This project was intimately linked to his administration's developmental vision for the southern region.
Another massive train initiative from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economic fortunes of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The building of both railway systems was managed by the army, marking a notable expansion of its duties in national works. They were built at an rapid pace, surpassing predictions to be partially opened before the end of that government.
However, this fast-paced schedule had also raised ongoing concerns over operational security.
- Sunday's crash was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an previous crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-deadly derailments.
Appeals for Audit and Pause
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the head of a primary political opposition called for an prompt pause in the building and running of all similar projects.
This pause was proposed until the completion of a full technical review. The party declared that the tragedy "calls for immediate answers."
In response, the head of state maintained that the train had been functioning in complete accordance with all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the construction and operation of these strategic projects.
