At least 13 people have been killed and almost 100 others injured after a passenger train derailed in southern Mexico, triggering a major emergency response and renewed scrutiny of rail safety in the region. The accident occurred on Sunday along the Interoceanic Train route in the state of Oaxaca, a key transport corridor linking the Pacific and Gulf coasts.
According to Mexican authorities and emergency services, the train left the tracks while navigating a curve near a rural area on the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Several carriages overturned, trapping passengers inside and causing widespread panic among those onboard. The train was carrying more than 200 passengers at the time of the crash.
Rescue teams, including federal police, firefighters, medical personnel and naval units, were dispatched to the scene. Survivors were pulled from damaged carriages and the injured were taken to hospitals in nearby towns, where doctors said some remain in serious condition. Officials confirmed that dozens of people suffered fractures and other trauma, while many more were treated for shock and minor injuries.
President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed condolences to the families of the victims and said the federal government was coordinating closely with state authorities to provide medical care and support to those affected. Senior officials were sent to the crash site to oversee rescue operations and ensure assistance reached victims and their relatives.
An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the derailment. While authorities have not yet confirmed what led to the crash, early reports suggest factors such as speed, track conditions or technical failures may have played a role. Rail services along the affected section have been suspended as safety checks continue.
The Interoceanic Train is part of a flagship infrastructure project aimed at boosting economic development by connecting ports across southern Mexico. The deadly accident has raised concerns about safety standards on the route, with calls from the public and opposition figures for a thorough review to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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