A deadly railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel censure from critics regarding the pace and handling of the country's major public works projects.
The accident happened on the Interoceanic Train, a line developed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was created to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We are going to rigorously clarify the reasons behind this accident,” stated the national leader.
The president announced that, of the some 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The official stated plans to go to Oaxaca to speak with those impacted.
Major Initiative of Past Leadership
The Interoceanic Train was a central development scheme of the immediate past president, whose term ended the year before. This rail line was intimately linked to his government's economic vision for the southern region.
Another massive rail project from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the wider plan to stimulate the economy of a comparatively poorer part of the country.
Construction Oversight and Worries
The development of both rail lines was managed by the army, marking a notable increase of its responsibilities in national projects. They were built at an accelerated speed, surpassing expectations to be at least partly opened before the end of that government.
However, this fast-paced schedule had simultaneously raised ongoing concerns over safety standards.
- Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This involves an previous collision this month when a train hit a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also had several non-lethal derailments.
Appeals for Audit and Pause
In the wake of the tragedy, the leader of a key rival party demanded an prompt pause in the development and management of all such projects.
This pause was suggested pending a thorough independent investigation. The party stated that the situation "demands immediate answers."
In response, the head of state asserted that the train had been running in complete adherence to all security protocols. Commitments were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the development and operation of these vital undertakings.
