A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and execution of the country's major public works projects.
The accident occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a rail link developed to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to establish an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We shall thoroughly investigate what caused this accident,” declared the head of state.
The leader announced that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The president added plans to go to Oaxaca to meet those involved.
Flagship Project of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone development scheme of the former leader, whose term ended the year before. This rail line was intimately linked to his leadership's developmental agenda for the southern region.
Another multi-billion dollar rail project from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the broader strategy to stimulate the economy of a comparatively poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Safety Concerns
The development of both train projects was overseen by the nation's military, marking a dramatic increase of its duties in public projects. They were executed at an rapid rate, defying predictions to be at least partly opened before the end of that administration.
However, this rushed timetable had also fueled significant concerns over operational security.
- Sunday's derailment was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This includes an previous collision this month when a train struck a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-deadly derailments.
Calls for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the disaster, the chief of a major opposition party called for an urgent pause in the building and running of all similar projects.
This halt was requested while awaiting a full technical review. The party stated that the loss of life "requires prompt explanations."
In reaction, the head of state insisted that the train had been running in complete adherence to all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would remain "responsible" in both the construction and management of these strategic projects.
