Post by : Meena Ariff

At least 13 people lost their lives and nearly 100 others were injured after a passenger train derailed in the southeastern Oaxaca region of Mexico, officials confirmed. The incident occurred on the Interoceanic train route, which connects the Gulf of Mexico with the Pacific Ocean. At the time of the derailment, the train was carrying 241 passengers and nine crew members.

According to the Mexican Navy, which operates the country’s railway network, 98 people were injured in the crash. Of those, 36 individuals are currently receiving treatment in local hospitals. The train came off the tracks as it rounded a sharp bend near the town of Nizanda. Authorities, including Mexico’s Attorney General, have already opened an investigation to determine the cause of the derailment.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed concern over the accident, revealing that five of the injured are in serious condition. She also stated that top government officials, including the Secretary of the Navy, were traveling to the scene to oversee the ongoing rescue and recovery operations.

Photos and videos from the crash site show rescue workers helping passengers safely disembark from the train, which had partially tilted off the tracks and down the side of a cliff. The Interoceanic train involved in the accident consists of two locomotives and four passenger cars. This rail service operates between the Pacific port of Salina Cruz and Coatzacoalcos, a port on the Gulf Coast, serving as a vital connection for both passenger and freight transportation in the region.

The Governor of Oaxaca, Salomón Jara Cruz, released a statement expressing his “deep regret” over the tragedy. He confirmed that state and federal authorities are working closely together to provide assistance and support to the victims and their families during this difficult time.

The Interoceanic rail link was inaugurated two years ago as part of a broader government initiative to boost economic development and improve infrastructure in southern Mexico. The project aims to modernize transportation across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, creating a strategic trade corridor by expanding ports, railways, and industrial facilities.

This rail corridor is a key component of the Mexican government’s plan to stimulate regional economic growth by enhancing connectivity between the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Despite today’s tragic accident, officials remain committed to the development and modernization of this important transport route to support the region’s future prosperity. Rescue efforts and the official investigation continue as authorities work to bring relief to those affected and uncover the factors that led to the derailment.

#Global News