A tragic train accident in southern Mexico has left at least 13 people dead and dozens injured after an Interoceanic passenger train derailed in the state of Oaxaca. The incident occurred near the town of Nizanda, sending shockwaves across the region and raising fresh concerns over rail safety on one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects.
The train was carrying around 250 people, including passengers and crew members, when it derailed. Emergency responders rushed to the site as injured passengers cried for help, and rescue teams worked to reach those trapped inside damaged carriages.
Injured Passengers Rushed to Hospitals
Officials said that 193 people on board were declared out of danger. However, 98 passengers suffered injuries, with 36 requiring immediate medical treatment. Several victims were taken to nearby hospitals, while five were reported to be in critical condition.
Me informa la Secretaría de Marina que en el accidente del Tren Interoceánico lamentablemente fallecieron 13 personas; 98 están lesionadas, cinco de ellas de gravedad. Los heridos se encuentran en hospitales del IMSS en Matías Romero y Salina Cruz, así como de IMSS-Bienestar en…
— Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo (@Claudiashein) December 29, 2025
President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the tragedy on social media, saying senior officials had been deployed to oversee rescue efforts and provide assistance to grieving families. Authorities continued rescue and medical operations throughout the day, despite the challenging terrain.
Investigation Ordered Into Cause of Derailment
Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office has launched an official investigation into the derailment. Investigators are examining possible technical failures, track conditions, and operational factors that may have led to the deadly crash.
The Mexican Navy, which oversees operations of the train service, coordinated emergency response efforts along with local police and civil protection teams. Officials said updates would be shared once more details emerge from the inquiry.
Interoceanic Train Project Under Scrutiny
The Interoceanic Train forms part of the Interoceanic Corridor project, launched in 2023 to connect Mexico’s Pacific and Gulf coasts through the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. The government designed the corridor to boost trade, modernize rail transport, and create a route that could compete with the Panama Canal.
The rail service also plays a key role in plans to stimulate economic growth in southern Mexico by improving passenger travel and freight movement. Sunday’s derailment has now cast a shadow over the project’s safety standards and operational readiness.
Rail Services Disrupted, Safety Concerns Grow
Train services along the affected route remain disrupted as authorities assess damage to the tracks and surrounding infrastructure. Local communities expressed shock and grief as families awaited news of loved ones involved in the accident.
The government has assured the public that safety checks will be strengthened and accountability ensured. For now, the nation mourns one of the deadliest rail accidents in recent years.
