A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive critical opposition regarding the rapidity and handling of the country's major infrastructure initiatives.
The disaster took place on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a route constructed to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was intended to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote economic development in the area.
“We are going to meticulously determine the cause of this tragedy,” affirmed the country's president.
The leader confirmed that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The president added plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those affected.
Key Undertaking of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone public works project of the previous administration, whose term ended the year before. This venture was a hallmark of his government's strategic goals for the southern region.
Another ambitious rail project from that era, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economic fortunes of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The building of both train projects was managed by the nation's military, marking a significant increase of its role in civilian infrastructure. They were built at an fast-tracked speed, surpassing expectations to be partially launched before the end of that administration.
However, this rushed timetable had concurrently fueled ongoing concerns over safety standards.
- Sunday's crash was the third event on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This includes an previous crash this month when a train hit a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-lethal derailments.
Demands for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the head of a major opposition party demanded an urgent halt in the building and running of all comparable projects.
This stoppage was suggested pending a full independent investigation. The party stated that the tragedy "calls for swift accountability."
In reaction, the national leader maintained that the train had been functioning in full accordance with all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would remain "diligent" in both the construction and running of these strategic initiatives.
