A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the speed and handling of the country's major government projects.
The accident took place on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a route constructed to join the Atlantic and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was designed to establish an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving regional growth in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate the cause of this incident,” stated the national leader.
The president confirmed that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The president noted plans to travel to Oaxaca to meet those affected.
Key Undertaking of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone public works project of the previous administration, whose term concluded the prior year. This project was closely associated with his government's developmental goals for the southeastern region.
Another ambitious railway undertaking from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the broader strategy to stimulate the economic fortunes of a historically poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The construction of both train projects was overseen by the nation's military, marking a dramatic expansion of its role in civilian projects. They were completed at an rapid speed, beating predictions to be at least partly opened before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had concurrently sparked persistent concerns over safety standards.
- Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an earlier accident this month when a train struck a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had a couple of non-fatal derailments.
Demands for Investigation and Halt
In the wake of the disaster, the chief of a key rival party called for an prompt halt in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This halt was requested while awaiting a full independent investigation. The party stated that the situation "calls for prompt explanations."
In reply, the national leader asserted that the train had been operating in complete compliance with all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the construction and running of these vital initiatives.
