No fewer than 13 people lose their lives and 98 wounded in rail accident in Mexico.

A tragic train derailment in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and handling of the country's key public works projects.

The crash took place on the trans-isthmus railway, a route constructed to join the Atlantic and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to establish an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving economic development in the area.

“We are going to thoroughly investigate the reasons behind this incident,” affirmed the national leader.

The official announced that, of the around 250 people on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The official noted plans to visit Oaxaca to meet those involved.

Key Undertaking of Former Government

The Interoceanic Train was a signature development scheme of the immediate past president, whose presidency ended the prior year. This venture was closely associated with his leadership's strategic vision for the southeastern region.

Another multi-billion dollar rail project from that time, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to revitalize the economy of a historically less developed part of the country.

Building Management and Worries

The development of both railway systems was overseen by the army, marking a significant increase of its role in national works. They were executed at an accelerated speed, defying expectations to be at least partly launched before the end of that government.

However, this fast-paced schedule had also fueled significant questions over safety standards.

• Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train within the past twelve months.
• This includes an earlier collision this month when a train smashed into a truck at a crossing.
• The other major rail project has also experienced several non-fatal derailments.

Appeals for Review and Suspension

In the aftermath of the disaster, the leader of a major opposition party called for an urgent pause in the building and running of all similar projects.

This stoppage was proposed while awaiting a comprehensive independent investigation. The party declared that the situation "requires prompt explanations."

In response, the head of state insisted that the train had been functioning in full compliance with all operational standards. Commitments were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the construction and operation of these vital projects.