At least 13 people perish and 98 injured in train crash in Mexico.

A tragic train derailment 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 rapidity and execution of the country's flagship public works projects.

The disaster took place on the Interoceanic Train, a line built to link the Atlantic and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to offer an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote commercial progress in the area.

“We will meticulously determine what caused this incident,” declared the head of state.

The president confirmed that, of the around 250 individuals on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in serious condition. The president added plans to go to Oaxaca to speak with those affected.

Key Undertaking of Previous Administration

The Interoceanic Train was a signature infrastructure project of the previous administration, whose time in office ended the previous year. This venture was closely associated with his government's economic vision for the southeastern region.

Another massive railway undertaking from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the broader strategy to stimulate the economy of a historically less developed part of the country.

Building Management and Risks Apprehensions

The building of both rail lines was managed by the nation's military, marking a notable growth of its duties in public projects. They were executed at an rapid rate, beating expectations to be at least partly launched before the end of that administration.

However, this accelerated timeline had also fueled persistent concerns over operational security.

• Sunday's accident was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train in the current year.
• This includes an previous accident this month when a train hit a truck at a crossing.
• The other major rail project has also seen a couple of non-fatal derailments.

Calls for Investigation and Halt

In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the head of a primary political opposition demanded an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all such projects.

This pause was requested until the completion of a thorough independent investigation. The party declared that the tragedy "demands immediate answers."

In response, the president maintained that the train had been operating in total adherence to all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the construction and running of these national undertakings.