At least 13 people lose their lives and 98 injured in train derailment in Mexico.

A fatal railway accident in the Mexican state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite opposition criticisms regarding the speed and handling of the country's key public works projects.

The accident happened on the trans-isthmus railway, a route built to link the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean across the slenderest section of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This initiative was created to establish an competing rail corridor to the Panama Canal, with the goal of spurring regional growth in the area.

“We shall thoroughly investigate the reasons behind this incident,” affirmed the head of state.

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

Key Undertaking of Former Government

The Interoceanic Train was a cornerstone infrastructure project of the former leader, whose presidency finished the prior year. This venture was a hallmark of his leadership's economic vision for the southern region.

Another multi-billion dollar railway undertaking from that period, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also central to the broader strategy to revitalize the economy of a comparatively disadvantaged part of the country.

Building Management and Risks Apprehensions

The development of both rail lines was overseen by the army, marking a notable increase of its role in national projects. They were completed at an rapid pace, beating expectations to be partially opened before the end of that presidency.

However, this rushed timetable had also fueled ongoing apprehensions over construction quality.

• Sunday's accident was the third event on the Interoceanic Train this year.
• This encompasses an previous collision this month when a train hit a truck at a level crossing.
• The other major rail project has also experienced a couple of non-deadly derailments.

Calls for Investigation and Halt

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

This stoppage was suggested while awaiting a thorough safety audit. The party emphasized that the situation "demands swift accountability."

In reply, the national leader insisted that the train had been functioning in complete accordance with all safety requirements. Assurances were given that the government would be "responsible" in both the development and running of these vital undertakings.