A deadly railway accident 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 rapidity and handling of the country's major government projects.
The accident occurred on the trans-isthmus railway, a route built to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was intended to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote economic development in the area.
“We are going to rigorously clarify what caused this incident,” affirmed the head of state.
The president reported that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in critical condition. The official added plans to visit Oaxaca to confer with those impacted.
Flagship Project of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone development scheme of the former leader, whose presidency ended the prior year. This venture was closely associated with his leadership's strategic vision for the southeastern region.
Another massive railway undertaking from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the wider plan to kickstart the economy of a comparatively poorer part of the country.
Project Execution and Worries
The construction of both rail lines was managed by the army, marking a dramatic increase of its duties in public works. They were built at an rapid speed, surpassing forecasts to be partially launched before the end of that administration.
However, this rushed timetable had simultaneously raised ongoing apprehensions over construction quality.
- Sunday's crash was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an previous crash this month when a train struck a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-lethal derailments.
Appeals for Investigation and Halt
In the wake of the catastrophe, the head of a primary political opposition urged an prompt suspension in the building and running of all similar projects.
This pause was proposed while awaiting a comprehensive independent investigation. The party stated that the tragedy "demands prompt explanations."
In response, the president insisted that the train had been operating in total adherence to all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would remain "accountable" in both the construction and management of these vital undertakings.
