A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and management of the country's key infrastructure initiatives.
The accident occurred on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a rail link constructed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was intended to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote commercial progress in the area.
“We will rigorously clarify the cause of this incident,” affirmed the national leader.
The president reported that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in serious condition. The official added plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those involved.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the immediate past president, whose time in office finished the year before. This venture was closely associated with his administration's developmental agenda for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar rail project from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the broader strategy to kickstart the economy of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The development of both rail lines was managed by the armed forces, marking a dramatic increase of its duties in civilian infrastructure. They were built at an fast-tracked rate, defying predictions to be partially opened before the end of that administration.
However, this rushed timetable had also raised significant apprehensions over operational security.
- Sunday's accident was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This includes an prior crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had a couple of non-deadly derailments.
Demands for Review and Suspension
In the aftermath of the disaster, the head of a major opposition party demanded an prompt halt in the building and running of all such projects.
This stoppage was suggested while awaiting a full independent investigation. The party declared that the situation "requires swift accountability."
In reaction, the president maintained that the train had been running in complete adherence to all operational standards. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the development and operation of these strategic undertakings.
