No fewer than 13 people lose their lives and ninety-eight hurt in train crash in Mexico.
A deadly train derailment in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel critical opposition regarding the rapidity and management of the country's major public works projects.
The crash happened on the trans-isthmus railway, a rail link built to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.
“We are going to rigorously clarify the cause of this accident,” affirmed the country's president.
The president reported that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in serious condition. The leader stated plans to go to Oaxaca to confer with those affected.
Flagship Project of Previous Administration
The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the immediate past president, whose presidency ended the prior year. This project was a hallmark of his government's economic agenda 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 comprehensive effort to stimulate the economy of a relatively poorer part of the country.
Building Management and Worries
The construction of both train projects was overseen by the army, marking a significant expansion of its duties in civilian infrastructure. They were built at an fast-tracked pace, defying expectations to be at least partly inaugurated before the end of that presidency.
However, this rushed timetable had also fueled persistent apprehensions over operational security.
- Sunday's crash was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
- This involves an earlier collision 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-lethal derailments.
Appeals for Investigation and Halt
In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the head of a primary political opposition demanded an immediate halt in the development and management of all such projects.
This pause was suggested until the completion of a full independent investigation. The party stated that the tragedy "demands immediate answers."
In reply, the national leader maintained that the train had been functioning in complete adherence to all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would remain "accountable" in both the development and running of these national projects.
