No fewer than 13 individuals lose their lives and 98 wounded in train crash in Mexico.

A deadly train crash in the southern state of Oaxaca has claimed the lives of at least 13 people, an incident expected to reignite censure from critics regarding the speed and management of the country's major public works projects.

The accident happened on the Interoceanic Train, a route constructed to link the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean across the narrowest part of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. This project was intended to provide an alternative rail cargo route to the Panama Canal, aimed at driving economic development in the area.

“We are going to meticulously determine the cause of this tragedy,” declared the country's president.

The official reported that, of the around 250 individuals on board, another 98 were injured, with five of those in grave condition. The leader noted plans to visit Oaxaca to speak with those affected.

Flagship Project of Previous Administration

The Interoceanic Train was a central public works project of the former leader, whose presidency concluded the previous year. This venture was closely associated with his government's developmental goals for the southern region.

Another massive train initiative from that period, a passenger and freight circuit around the Yucatán Peninsula, was also part of the comprehensive effort to kickstart the economy of a comparatively poorer part of the country.

Construction Oversight and Safety Concerns

The development of both railway systems was overseen by the nation's military, marking a significant growth of its duties in public infrastructure. They were executed at an accelerated pace, beating predictions to be partially inaugurated before the end of that presidency.

However, this fast-paced schedule had concurrently sparked persistent questions over operational security.

• Sunday's derailment was the third occurrence on the Interoceanic Train this year.
• This involves 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-fatal derailments.

Appeals for Review and Suspension

In the wake of the disaster, the head of a key rival party called for an urgent pause in the development and management of all such projects.

This stoppage was requested while awaiting a thorough technical review. The party declared that the tragedy "demands immediate answers."

In reply, the head of state asserted that the train had been running in complete 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 projects.