A deadly train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive censure from critics regarding the rapidity and execution of the country's major government projects.
The crash happened on the trans-isthmus railway, a route built to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to offer an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We are going to meticulously determine what caused this incident,” affirmed the national leader.
The leader confirmed that, of the approximately 250 individuals on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in serious condition. The leader noted plans to visit Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the immediate past president, whose time in office concluded the year before. This venture was intimately linked to his leadership's strategic agenda for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar railway undertaking from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economic fortunes of a relatively less developed part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The construction of both train projects was supervised by the army, marking a dramatic growth of its role in civilian projects. They were executed at an accelerated pace, defying predictions 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 derailment was the third event on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
- This involves an previous crash this month when a train hit a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had several non-deadly derailments.
Calls for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the disaster, the chief of a primary political opposition called for an urgent halt in the development and management of all such projects.
This pause was requested until the completion of a comprehensive independent investigation. The party declared that the loss of life "demands prompt explanations."
In reaction, the head of state insisted that the train had been running in total accordance with all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the construction and running of these strategic projects.
