No fewer than thirteen people lose their lives and ninety-eight hurt in train crash in the nation of Mexico.

A fatal train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel censure from critics regarding the rapidity and management of the country's flagship public works projects.

The crash took place on the Interoceanic Train, a rail link built to join the Atlantic and Pacific across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote regional growth in the area.

“We are going to thoroughly investigate what caused this accident,” stated the national leader.

The leader confirmed that, of the around 250 individuals on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The leader added plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those impacted.

Flagship Project of Previous Administration

The Interoceanic Train was a signature public works project of the previous administration, whose term ended the year before. This project was closely associated with his government's economic goals for the southeastern region.

Another ambitious railway undertaking 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 comparatively less developed part of the country.

Building Management and Risks Apprehensions

The construction of both train projects was supervised by the nation's military, marking a dramatic expansion of its duties in public projects. They were built at an rapid rate, beating forecasts to be at least partly launched before the end of that government.

However, this accelerated timeline had simultaneously raised significant questions over operational security.

• Sunday's crash was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
• This encompasses an earlier accident this month when a train hit a truck at a level crossing.
• The other major rail project has also seen several non-lethal derailments.

Demands for Investigation and Halt

In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the head of a key rival party demanded an immediate suspension in the construction and operation of all such projects.

This halt was suggested until the completion of a comprehensive independent investigation. The party stated that the loss of life "demands swift accountability."

In reply, the president maintained that the train had been operating in full accordance with all safety requirements. Commitments were given that the government would continue to be "accountable" in both the development and management of these national projects.