A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive critical opposition regarding the rapidity and management of the country's key government projects.
The crash happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line built to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was intended to provide an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We will thoroughly investigate what caused this tragedy,” declared the national leader.
The president reported that, of the approximately 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The official added plans to visit Oaxaca to confer with those involved.
Major Initiative of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the immediate past president, whose term concluded the prior year. This rail line was a hallmark of his administration's strategic vision for the southeastern region.
Another massive railway undertaking from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the broader strategy to kickstart the economic fortunes of a comparatively less developed part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The development of both railway systems was supervised by the army, marking a significant expansion of its responsibilities in national infrastructure. They were completed at an rapid rate, beating forecasts to be partially launched before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had also raised significant questions over operational security.
- Sunday's accident was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This encompasses an prior accident this month when a train struck a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced a couple of non-deadly derailments.
Demands for Review and Suspension
In the wake of the tragedy, the head of a primary political opposition urged an immediate pause in the development and management of all such projects.
This stoppage was suggested pending a thorough technical review. The party declared that the loss of life "demands immediate answers."
In reply, the head of state maintained that the train had been running in full compliance with all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the development and running of these vital projects.
