A minimum of 13 people killed and 98 injured in rail accident in the nation of Mexico.

A tragic train derailment in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident likely to revive critical opposition regarding the pace and management of the country's flagship government projects.

The crash occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a line built to connect the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific across the thinnest stretch of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was designed to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, intended to promote economic development in the area.

“We are going to rigorously clarify the cause of this accident,” stated the national leader.

The president confirmed that, of the around 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in grave condition. The leader stated plans to visit Oaxaca to confer with those involved.

Key Undertaking of Previous Administration

The Interoceanic Train was a central public works project of the immediate past president, whose time in office ended the previous year. This rail line was a hallmark of his leadership's strategic agenda for the southeastern region.

Another ambitious train initiative from that time, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the broader strategy to stimulate the economic fortunes of a comparatively poorer part of the country.

Building Management and Risks Apprehensions

The development of both railway systems was overseen by the armed forces, marking a notable expansion of its duties in national works. They were executed at an fast-tracked speed, beating expectations to be partially opened before the end of that administration.

However, this rushed timetable had simultaneously raised significant questions over construction quality.

• Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
• This includes an earlier collision this month when a train struck a truck at a level 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 tragedy, the head of a key rival party called for an immediate halt in the building and running of all such projects.

This stoppage was proposed pending a thorough independent investigation. The party emphasized that the loss of life "calls for swift accountability."

In reply, the national leader asserted that the train had been running in total accordance with all safety requirements. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the construction and operation of these vital initiatives.