A fatal train derailment in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive critical opposition regarding the pace and handling of the country's major public works projects.
The crash happened on the trans-isthmus railway, a line developed to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was intended to establish an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We shall meticulously determine the reasons behind this tragedy,” declared the country's president.
The president announced that, of the approximately 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in serious condition. The official noted plans to go to Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Flagship Project of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the immediate past president, whose presidency ended the previous year. This venture was closely associated with his government's economic vision for the southern region.
Another multi-billion dollar train initiative from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economic fortunes of a historically poorer part of the country.
Project Execution and Worries
The construction of both rail lines was supervised by the nation's military, marking a significant increase of its responsibilities in public projects. They were built at an rapid pace, surpassing expectations to be at least partly opened before the end of that government.
However, this fast-paced schedule had simultaneously sparked ongoing apprehensions over construction quality.
- Sunday's derailment was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This involves an previous collision this month when a train struck a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had two non-lethal derailments.
Demands for Investigation and Halt
In the wake of the disaster, the head of a key rival party called for an urgent pause in the building and running of all similar projects.
This pause was suggested pending a thorough safety audit. The party stated that the tragedy "requires immediate answers."
In reply, the president maintained that the train had been running in complete adherence to all operational standards. Commitments were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the construction and management of these vital initiatives.
