At least thirteen people perish and ninety-eight injured in train crash in Mexico.

A fatal train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive censure from critics regarding the rapidity and execution of the country's major government projects.

The accident took place on the Interoceanic Train, a rail link built to link the Atlantic and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to establish an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring commercial progress in the area.

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

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

Major Initiative of Past Leadership

The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the immediate past president, whose presidency finished the year before. This venture was closely associated with his government's developmental vision for the southern region.

Another massive train initiative from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economy of a relatively disadvantaged part of the country.

Building Management and Worries

The building of both railway systems was managed by the nation's military, marking a dramatic increase of its duties in civilian works. They were completed at an accelerated rate, surpassing forecasts to be partially launched before the end of that government.

However, this accelerated timeline had concurrently fueled ongoing questions over construction quality.

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

Calls for Investigation and Halt

In the aftermath of the disaster, the leader of a major opposition party demanded an prompt halt in the building and running of all comparable projects.

This stoppage was requested until the completion of a thorough safety audit. The party stated that the loss of life "requires prompt explanations."

In reply, the president insisted that the train had been operating in full accordance with all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the construction and management of these vital projects.