A fatal train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive censure from critics regarding the speed and management of the country's major infrastructure initiatives.
The crash happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line developed to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We will meticulously determine the cause of this accident,” declared the national leader.
The president confirmed that, of the around 250 individuals on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in serious condition. The leader added plans to travel to Oaxaca to meet those involved.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone development scheme of the previous administration, whose time in office finished the year before. This project was intimately linked to his administration's economic vision for the southeastern region.
Another massive rail project from that period, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the broader strategy to stimulate the economy of a relatively disadvantaged part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The development of both train projects was supervised by the armed forces, marking a notable increase of its responsibilities in national works. They were executed at an accelerated pace, surpassing predictions to be at least partly opened before the end of that presidency.
However, this fast-paced schedule had concurrently fueled persistent questions over construction quality.
- Sunday's crash was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an prior collision this month when a train smashed into a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-lethal derailments.
Calls for Audit and Pause
In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the chief of a key rival party called for an prompt suspension in the construction and operation of all similar projects.
This stoppage was suggested while awaiting a comprehensive technical review. The party stated that the loss of life "calls for swift accountability."
In reaction, the head of state asserted that the train had been running in total accordance with all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the construction and operation of these national initiatives.
