At least thirteen people killed and 98 hurt in rail accident in Mexico.

A fatal train crash in the Mexican 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 management of the country's flagship public works projects.

The disaster happened on the Interoceanic Train, a line constructed to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.

“We are going to meticulously determine the cause of this incident,” declared the head of state.

The official reported that, of the around 250 passengers on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in serious condition. The official added plans to travel to Oaxaca to speak with those affected.

Flagship Project of Previous Administration

The Interoceanic Train was a central development scheme of the immediate past president, whose presidency concluded the prior year. This venture was closely associated with his leadership's strategic agenda for the southern region.

Another massive train initiative from that time, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to stimulate the economy of a historically disadvantaged part of the country.

Construction Oversight and Risks Apprehensions

The construction of both train projects was overseen by the nation's military, marking a notable increase of its role in civilian works. They were completed at an rapid rate, defying predictions to be at least partly inaugurated before the end of that presidency.

However, this accelerated timeline had also sparked persistent questions over operational security.

• Sunday's derailment was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
• This involves an previous crash this month when a train struck a truck at a crossing.
• The other major rail project has also had a couple of non-fatal derailments.

Demands for Investigation and Halt

In the wake of the disaster, the chief of a primary political opposition called for an urgent pause in the construction and operation of all similar projects.

This pause was suggested while awaiting a full safety audit. The party stated that the tragedy "demands prompt explanations."

In reply, the national leader asserted that the train had been functioning in complete adherence to all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the development and management of these national undertakings.