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 rapidity and handling of the country's key public works projects.
The crash happened on the Interoceanic Train, a line constructed to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was designed to provide an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, intended to promote commercial progress in the area.
“We shall meticulously determine the cause of this tragedy,” affirmed the head of state.
The president reported that, of the around 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in serious condition. The president stated plans to go to Oaxaca to meet those affected.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a signature infrastructure project of the previous administration, whose presidency ended the prior year. This project was a hallmark of his leadership's strategic goals for the southeastern region.
Another massive train initiative from that time, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economic fortunes of a relatively less developed part of the country.
Project Execution and Worries
The construction of both train projects was managed by the armed forces, marking a dramatic growth of its responsibilities in public works. They were completed at an accelerated pace, beating predictions to be at least partly launched before the end of that presidency.
However, this accelerated timeline had concurrently raised ongoing apprehensions over safety standards.
- Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an earlier crash this month when a train hit a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also experienced a couple of non-lethal derailments.
Appeals for Review and Suspension
In the wake of the catastrophe, the head of a key rival party called for an urgent pause in the building and running of all similar projects.
This halt was requested until the completion of a comprehensive safety audit. The party stated that the loss of life "demands immediate answers."
In reaction, the head of state insisted that the train had been functioning in total accordance with all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would be "diligent" in both the development and running of these vital undertakings.
