At least 13 people killed and 98 wounded in train derailment in the nation of Mexico.

A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite censure from critics regarding the pace and execution of the country's flagship government projects.

The disaster took place on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a rail link developed to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was designed to offer an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving economic development in the area.

“We will thoroughly investigate the reasons behind this tragedy,” affirmed the head of state.

The president confirmed that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in grave condition. The official stated plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those affected.

Key Undertaking of Former Government

The Interoceanic Train was a central infrastructure project of the former leader, whose time in office finished the prior year. This venture was intimately linked to his government's developmental goals for the southern region.

Another multi-billion dollar rail project from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the broader strategy to kickstart the economy of a comparatively poorer part of the country.

Project Execution and Safety Concerns

The construction of both rail lines was managed by the nation's military, marking a significant expansion of its duties in public projects. They were built at an accelerated rate, surpassing predictions to be partially inaugurated before the end of that administration.

However, this accelerated timeline had also fueled significant questions over operational security.

• Sunday's derailment was the third event on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
• This includes an previous accident this month when a train hit a truck at a level crossing.
• The other major rail project has also had several non-deadly derailments.

Demands for Investigation and Halt

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

This stoppage was suggested until the completion of a thorough safety audit. The party emphasized that the tragedy "requires swift accountability."

In reply, the national leader maintained that the train had been running in complete compliance with all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the construction and operation of these strategic projects.