At least 13 people killed and 98 wounded in train crash in the nation of Mexico.

A deadly train crash in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident sure to fuel opposition criticisms regarding the rapidity and handling of the country's major public works projects.

The accident took place on the Interoceanic Train, a line developed to join the Atlantic and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was created to provide an different freight railway path to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving economic development in the area.

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

The president confirmed that, of the some 250 passengers on board, another 98 were hurt, with five of those in critical condition. The official stated plans to visit Oaxaca to speak with those affected.

Flagship Project of Past Leadership

The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone public works project of the immediate past president, whose presidency ended the year before. This rail line was a hallmark of his leadership's developmental vision for the southern region.

Another massive railway undertaking from that period, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also integral to the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economic fortunes of a relatively disadvantaged part of the country.

Building Management and Worries

The development of both railway systems was overseen by the nation's military, marking a significant expansion of its responsibilities in national works. They were executed at an accelerated pace, beating forecasts to be partially opened before the end of that presidency.

However, this fast-paced schedule had simultaneously fueled ongoing apprehensions over construction quality.

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

Calls for Audit and Pause

In the wake of the catastrophe, the chief of a key rival party called for an immediate halt in the building and running of all comparable projects.

This pause was suggested pending a full independent investigation. The party declared that the tragedy "demands swift accountability."

In reaction, the president insisted that the train had been running in full adherence to all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would remain "diligent" in both the construction and operation of these national projects.