A tragic train derailment in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite censure from critics regarding the speed and management of the country's major government projects.
The accident occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a line built to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was designed to offer an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We shall meticulously determine what caused this tragedy,” stated the head of state.
The president announced that, of the approximately 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The president stated plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those impacted.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a central public works project of the former leader, whose term ended the year before. This venture was a hallmark of his administration's economic goals 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 wider plan to kickstart the economic fortunes of a historically disadvantaged part of the country.
Project Execution and Worries
The development of both railway systems was managed by the army, marking a dramatic increase of its role in public projects. They were completed at an rapid rate, surpassing expectations to be partially inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this accelerated timeline had also sparked significant questions over safety standards.
- Sunday's derailment was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an previous accident this month when a train hit a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced several non-lethal derailments.
Demands for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the disaster, the chief of a major opposition party urged an prompt suspension in the building and running of all similar projects.
This stoppage was requested while awaiting a thorough safety audit. The party emphasized that the tragedy "requires prompt explanations."
In response, the president asserted that the train had been running in full adherence to all operational standards. Promises were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the construction and running of these strategic initiatives.
