A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel censure from critics regarding the rapidity and execution of the country's major public works projects.
The crash occurred on the trans-isthmus railway, a route built to connect the Atlantic and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to establish an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring commercial progress in the area.
“We will rigorously clarify the cause of this tragedy,” affirmed the country's president.
The leader confirmed that, of the some 250 passengers on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in critical condition. The president noted plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those impacted.
Key Undertaking of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a signature infrastructure project of the former leader, whose presidency ended the previous year. This venture was a hallmark of his leadership's developmental goals for the southeastern region.
Another massive railway undertaking from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economic fortunes of a relatively less developed part of the country.
Project Execution and Worries
The building of both railway systems was managed by the armed forces, marking a notable increase of its responsibilities in civilian infrastructure. They were completed at an fast-tracked speed, beating forecasts to be at least partly opened before the end of that presidency.
However, this fast-paced schedule had also raised significant questions over operational security.
- Sunday's derailment was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an prior crash this month when a train hit a truck at a railroad crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen two non-fatal derailments.
Calls for Investigation and Halt
In the wake of the catastrophe, the leader of a major opposition party urged an prompt halt in the building and running of all such projects.
This halt was requested pending a comprehensive independent investigation. The party stated that the situation "calls for immediate answers."
In response, the president asserted that the train had been running in full adherence to all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the development and management of these vital undertakings.
