At least 13 passengers perish and 98 wounded in train crash in Mexico.

A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and execution of the country's major public works projects.

The disaster occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a route developed to connect the Atlantic and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to offer an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring commercial progress in the area.

“We shall thoroughly investigate the reasons behind this incident,” stated the country's president.

The president announced that, of the approximately 250 people on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in grave condition. The leader noted plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those affected.

Flagship Project of Past Leadership

The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone public works project of the former leader, whose presidency finished the previous year. This venture was closely associated with his government's developmental goals for the southeastern region.

Another massive rail project from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the wider plan to stimulate the economy of a historically disadvantaged part of the country.

Construction Oversight and Safety Concerns

The construction of both rail lines was overseen by the armed forces, marking a notable expansion of its duties in public infrastructure. They were built at an accelerated pace, beating expectations to be at least partly inaugurated before the end of that government.

However, this rushed timetable had concurrently sparked significant questions over construction quality.

• Sunday's derailment was the third event on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
• This includes an prior collision this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
• The other major rail project has also seen several non-lethal derailments.

Demands for Review and Suspension

In the aftermath of the disaster, the chief of a primary political opposition called for an prompt pause in the building and running of all such projects.

This pause was requested until the completion of a full safety audit. The party emphasized that the tragedy "demands swift accountability."

In response, the head of state maintained that the train had been operating in complete adherence to all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would be "diligent" in both the construction and operation of these national initiatives.