At least 13 people perish and 98 wounded in train derailment in Mexico.
A fatal railway accident in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the speed and execution of the country's major government projects.
The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a route constructed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was designed to provide an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.
“We shall rigorously clarify the reasons behind this incident,” affirmed the head of state.
The leader announced that, of the approximately 250 individuals on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in critical condition. The official added plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those involved.
Key Undertaking of Former Government
The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone development scheme of the previous administration, whose time in office ended the prior year. This venture was closely associated with his leadership's economic vision for the southeastern region.
Another multi-billion dollar railway undertaking from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the wider plan to revitalize the economic fortunes of a comparatively poorer part of the country.
Project Execution and Risks Apprehensions
The development of both rail lines was overseen by the nation's military, marking a dramatic increase of its role in public works. They were completed at an accelerated rate, beating expectations to be partially inaugurated before the end of that administration.
However, this rushed timetable had also raised persistent questions over construction quality.
- Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
- This includes an previous collision this month when a train struck a truck at a level crossing.
- The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-fatal derailments.
Calls for Audit and Pause
In the wake of the tragedy, the head of a primary political opposition demanded an prompt suspension in the development and management of all similar projects.
This halt was proposed pending a thorough technical review. The party stated that the situation "calls for immediate answers."
In reaction, the national leader insisted that the train had been running in full adherence to all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the construction and running of these strategic projects.
