A deadly train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite censure from critics regarding the pace and execution of the country's key government projects.
The crash happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line developed to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to provide an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We will meticulously determine the cause of this accident,” stated the country's president.
The official reported that, of the some 250 individuals on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The official stated plans to go to Oaxaca to meet those impacted.
Major Initiative of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a central development scheme of the immediate past president, whose time in office ended the year before. This rail line was closely associated with his government's economic vision for the southeastern region.
Another ambitious train initiative from that period, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economic fortunes of a comparatively less developed part of the country.
Project Execution and Safety Concerns
The construction of both railway systems was managed by the army, marking a dramatic growth of its role in public infrastructure. They were executed at an rapid rate, beating predictions to be at least partly inaugurated before the end of that administration.
However, this rushed timetable had concurrently fueled significant concerns over safety standards.
- Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an prior accident this month when a train struck a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen several non-lethal derailments.
Demands for Investigation and Halt
In the wake of the disaster, the leader of a major opposition party demanded an prompt halt in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This halt was requested until the completion of a full safety audit. The party emphasized that the loss of life "demands swift accountability."
In response, the national leader insisted that the train had been running in complete compliance with all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the development and operation of these strategic projects.
