A deadly train derailment in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel censure from critics regarding the pace and execution of the country's major public works projects.
The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line constructed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was created to establish an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We shall meticulously determine the cause of this incident,” declared the country's president.
The president announced that, of the around 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The president noted plans to travel to Oaxaca to meet those affected.
Flagship Project of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the former leader, whose time in office concluded the year before. This rail line was intimately linked to his government's developmental agenda for the southeastern region.
Another massive train initiative from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the wider plan to kickstart the economy of a comparatively disadvantaged part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Risks Apprehensions
The building of both train projects was overseen by the nation's military, marking a notable expansion of its duties in public works. They were built at an rapid rate, surpassing forecasts to be partially opened before the end of that government.
However, this rushed timetable had concurrently raised ongoing questions over operational security.
- Sunday's crash was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an previous accident this month when a train hit a truck at a crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had a couple of non-lethal derailments.
Demands for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the disaster, the leader of a major opposition party demanded an prompt halt in the construction and operation of all comparable projects.
This halt was proposed until the completion of a thorough technical review. The party declared that the loss of life "calls for prompt explanations."
In response, the national leader asserted that the train had been running in complete accordance with all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the development and running of these national initiatives.
