No fewer than 13 people lose their lives and 98 injured in train derailment in the nation of Mexico.

A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite critical opposition regarding the pace and execution of the country's flagship government projects.

The disaster occurred on the Interoceanic Train, a route constructed to link the Atlantic and Pacific across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was designed to establish an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving economic development in the area.

“We shall thoroughly investigate what caused this incident,” stated the country's president.

The official confirmed that, of the around 250 individuals on board, another 98 were wounded, with five of those in serious condition. The president stated plans to go to Oaxaca to speak with those involved.

Major Initiative of Previous Administration

The Interoceanic Train was a signature infrastructure project of the previous administration, whose presidency concluded the previous year. This rail line was closely associated with his administration's economic vision for the southern region.

Another ambitious train initiative from that era, a tourist and cargo loop around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the broader strategy to stimulate the economic fortunes of a comparatively less developed part of the country.

Building Management and Risks Apprehensions

The building of both rail lines was overseen by the armed forces, marking a significant increase of its responsibilities in national works. They were executed at an accelerated pace, surpassing predictions to be at least partly opened before the end of that administration.

However, this rushed timetable had also fueled significant concerns over operational security.

• Sunday's accident was the third such incident on the Interoceanic Train this year.
• This involves an earlier collision this month when a train smashed into a truck at a level crossing.
• The other major rail project has also seen several non-fatal derailments.

Demands for Audit and Pause

In the wake of the catastrophe, the chief of a key rival party demanded an immediate suspension in the building and running of all such projects.

This stoppage was suggested while awaiting a comprehensive independent investigation. The party emphasized that the tragedy "requires prompt explanations."

In reply, the national leader asserted that the train had been functioning in full compliance with all security protocols. Promises were given that the government would continue to be "responsible" in both the development and management of these vital undertakings.