A deadly train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and management of the country's flagship infrastructure initiatives.
The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Train, a line constructed to link the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was designed to provide an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving regional growth in the area.
“We shall meticulously determine the cause of this accident,” declared the country's president.
The president reported that, of the some 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in serious condition. The president added plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those affected.
Flagship Project of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the previous administration, whose presidency concluded the prior year. This rail line was closely associated with his administration's economic vision for the southern region.
Another multi-billion dollar train initiative from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economic fortunes of a historically disadvantaged part of the country.
Project Execution and Safety Concerns
The construction of both train projects was managed by the nation's military, marking a dramatic growth of its role in civilian projects. They were completed at an fast-tracked speed, defying forecasts to be at least partly inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this rushed timetable had also raised ongoing questions over construction quality.
- Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This includes an earlier crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-deadly derailments.
Appeals for Investigation and Halt
In the wake of the tragedy, the leader of a major opposition party called for an prompt halt in the development and management of all comparable projects.
This pause was proposed until the completion of a full independent investigation. The party emphasized that the situation "demands immediate answers."
In reply, the head of state insisted that the train had been running in full compliance with all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the development and running of these strategic projects.
