A minimum of 13 people killed and ninety-eight hurt in train derailment in Mexico.

A tragic train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive censure from critics regarding the speed and handling of the country's flagship government projects.

The crash took place on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a line built to link the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This endeavor was created to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring economic development in the area.

“We will meticulously determine what caused this tragedy,” declared the national leader.

The leader confirmed that, of the around 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The leader noted plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those involved.

Flagship Project of Previous Administration

The Interoceanic Train was a signature infrastructure project of the previous administration, whose presidency ended the previous year. This venture was a hallmark of his government's economic agenda for the southern region.

Another massive railway undertaking from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economy of a comparatively poorer part of the country.

Project Execution and Worries

The building of both railway systems was managed by the army, marking a significant expansion of its responsibilities in national projects. They were executed at an accelerated pace, defying expectations to be partially opened before the end of that government.

However, this rushed timetable had also raised ongoing apprehensions over operational security.

• Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
• This encompasses an prior crash this month when a train smashed into a truck at a railroad crossing.
• The other major rail project has also had several non-deadly derailments.

Demands for Review and Suspension

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the leader of a primary political opposition urged an prompt pause in the development and management of all similar projects.

This pause was suggested until the completion of a full independent investigation. The party declared that the situation "demands swift accountability."

In reply, the head of state maintained that the train had been operating in full adherence to all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the development and running of these national projects.