No fewer than 13 passengers killed and ninety-eight injured in train crash in the nation of Mexico.
A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite censure from critics regarding the speed and handling of the country's flagship government projects.
The crash occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a line constructed to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to establish an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, intended to promote economic development in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate what caused this accident,” affirmed the head of state.
The president announced that, of the some 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The president added plans to travel to Oaxaca to meet those involved.
Flagship Project of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a central development scheme of the previous administration, whose time in office concluded the year before. This project was closely associated with his government's developmental vision for the southeastern region.
Another massive railway undertaking 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 relatively poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The building of both railway systems was managed by the armed forces, marking a significant growth of its role in civilian works. They were completed at an fast-tracked rate, beating expectations to be partially opened before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had also raised persistent concerns over construction quality.
- Sunday's accident was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
- This includes an prior accident this month when a train hit a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced several non-deadly derailments.
Calls for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the chief of a major opposition party called for an immediate pause in the construction and operation of all such projects.
This pause was requested pending a thorough independent investigation. The party stated that the loss of life "requires immediate answers."
In reaction, the president asserted that the train had been functioning in full compliance with all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the construction and running of these vital projects.
