(Image source from: Twitter.com/GobiernoMX)

Mexico has inaugurated a new railway line that runs from the Gulf coast to the Pacific Ocean, marking a significant milestone in President Lopez Obrador's efforts to boost investment in the country's southern region. Known as the "Inter-Oceanic Train," this transportation system will transport both passengers and cargo from Coatzacoalcos in Veracruz state to Salina Cruz, a major port on the Pacific coast. The government hopes to attract investments from various industries, including car manufacturers, technology firms, and semiconductor producers, by establishing industrial parks in the area. Additionally, the train line is being positioned as a potential alternative to the Panama Canal, although its shipping capacity is expected to be significantly lower. Furthermore, officials have announced plans to complete other rail lines connected to the main line by next year.

Once the various sections are completed, the Mayan Train will connect the southern state of Chiapas to the popular tourist destination of Cancun. However, experts have cautioned that the project has exceeded its budget by nearly four times and is still far from being finished. Earlier this year, Mexican authorities seized portions of a rail line owned by conglomerate Grupo Mexico's transportation division for the Inter-Oceanic Train, but a resolution was later reached between the two parties. Additionally, President Lopez Obrador has expressed his desire to involve major rail operator CPKC, which operates a network spanning Canada, the U.S., and Veracruz, in his rail initiatives by connecting their lines to the government's projects in the southern region.