A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the speed and handling of the country's key government projects.
The disaster occurred on the trans-isthmus railway, a route built to join the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote economic development in the area.
“We are going to thoroughly investigate what caused this tragedy,” affirmed the head of state.
The official confirmed that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in grave condition. The official noted plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those impacted.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone development scheme of the previous administration, whose time in office concluded the year before. This project was intimately linked to his leadership's strategic goals for the southeastern region.
Another massive train initiative from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the wider plan to kickstart the economy of a relatively disadvantaged part of the country.
Project Execution and Worries
The building of both rail lines was supervised by the army, marking a dramatic increase of its responsibilities in civilian works. They were completed at an rapid speed, defying forecasts to be at least partly launched before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had also fueled ongoing concerns over construction quality.
- Sunday's accident was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an prior collision this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had a couple of non-lethal derailments.
Appeals for Audit and Pause
In the aftermath of the disaster, the chief of a key rival party called for an prompt halt in the development and management of all similar projects.
This halt was proposed while awaiting a comprehensive independent investigation. The party stated that the loss of life "requires prompt explanations."
In response, the president maintained that the train had been operating in full accordance with all operational standards. Assurances were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the construction and running of these vital projects.
