Mexico: A major rail accident on Mexico’s Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 passengers and injuries to nearly a hundred others, authorities confirmed on Sunday. The incident occurred on the Salina Cruz–Coatzacoalcos stretch, a key route within the country’s interoceanic transport corridor.
According to officials, the passenger train operating on Line Z was carrying approximately 250 people when it derailed. Emergency assessments revealed that 98 passengers suffered injuries, with 36 requiring hospitalisation. The remaining injured were treated for minor wounds, while 139 passengers were reported to be safe and out of danger.
The Mexican Navy Secretariat, which manages the interoceanic railway corridor, described the incident as tragic and expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. In an official statement, the Navy reiterated its commitment to transparency and lawful conduct, assuring that immediate assistance was being provided to victims and their relatives.
Following the derailment, large-scale rescue and relief efforts were launched. Around 360 naval personnel were deployed, supported by multiple emergency vehicles, ground and air ambulances, and a tactical drone to assist with search-and-rescue operations at the site.
Authorities said investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident, with coordination among various agencies to ensure accountability and continued support for those affected.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo responded swiftly to the tragedy, directing senior officials to travel to the accident location and oversee relief measures. She confirmed that injured passengers are being treated at IMSS hospitals in Matías Romero and Salina Cruz, as well as IMSS-Wellbeing facilities in Juchitán and Ixtepec.
In a statement shared on social media, the President said the Secretary of the Navy and the Deputy Secretary of Human Rights from the Secretariat of the Interior have been tasked with personally attending to affected families. She added that the Secretariat of the Interior will coordinate ongoing efforts, while acknowledging the support of Oaxaca’s state government.
Officials have assured that further updates will be released as investigations and relief operations continue.
