No fewer than 13 people perish and 98 hurt in train crash in Mexico.

A deadly train derailment in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has caused the fatalities of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the speed and management of the country's flagship government projects.

The disaster took place on the Interoceanic Corridor train, a route built to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was created to establish an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, intended to promote economic development in the area.

“We shall rigorously clarify what caused this accident,” affirmed the country's president.

The leader confirmed that, of the approximately 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in serious condition. The president stated plans to go to Oaxaca to meet those affected.

Flagship Project of Previous Administration

The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the previous administration, whose presidency ended the prior year. This rail line was closely associated with his leadership's strategic goals for the southern region.

Another massive rail project from that period, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the wider plan to revitalize the economic fortunes of a comparatively disadvantaged part of the country.

Building Management and Safety Concerns

The construction of both railway systems was overseen by the armed forces, marking a notable increase of its duties in civilian works. They were completed at an fast-tracked speed, beating expectations to be partially opened before the end of that government.

However, this rushed timetable had simultaneously fueled persistent questions over safety standards.

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

Appeals for Audit and Pause

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the chief of a primary political opposition called for an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all similar projects.

This pause was suggested until the completion of a thorough safety audit. The party declared that the situation "requires prompt explanations."

In response, the president maintained that the train had been operating in total compliance with all operational standards. Commitments were given that the government would be "accountable" in both the construction and operation of these national projects.