CIIT Tenders: Preparations and Launch

By @dM1nBlog

As explained in previous articles, the current administration is making a big bet on railway infrastructure, making trains a key player in Mexico’s economic growth plans. Within the National Development Plan, there are two main points that include railway lines: the Maya Train and the Program for the Development of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. More information on both projects can be found here.

Although the Maya Train has faced much controversy and criticism from environmentalists and indigenous community advocates, the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Interoceanic Corridor (CIIT) has had better luck and planning. The project includes railway, airport, port, and industrial development components.

Objectives of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Interoceanic Corridor (CIIT)

According to the official Mexican government website, the goal is to create a logistical platform that integrates port administration services between the ports of Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, and Salina Cruz, Oaxaca, via a railway connection. All of this is done under a sustainable vision.

The main objectives of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Interoceanic Corridor (CIIT) are:

  • Strengthen the region’s economic base.
  • Promote the modernization of railway infrastructure.
  • Overcome the area’s development lag.
  • Collaborate with the National Institute of Indigenous Peoples to ensure this development occurs in a manner that preserves indigenous cultures and customs.

Progress and Updates on the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Interoceanic Corridor (CIIT)

The CIIT works consist of the following:

  • Rehabilitation of 309 km of railway lines, reducing a journey of more than seven hours to just four, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Public and private investment of 3.9 billion pesos is required for this part.
  • Modernization of ports in Salina Cruz and Coatzacoalcos.
  • Rehabilitation of cargo areas in Ixtepec and Minatitlán.

The project encompasses 46 municipalities in Oaxaca and 33 in Veracruz. In March, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador announced that the project was 65% complete. According to federal government plans, the CIIT will be inaugurated in phases, with the railway lines expected to be ready by mid-2022, and container terminals completed by 2023.

However, these preliminary dates may be overly optimistic for the construction timeline. The first tenders were rejected for being above the requested budget, and new proposals have just been submitted. The Maya Train is expected to support cost reductions by supplying 218 km of rails, sleepers, and all fixings. Nevertheless, President López Obrador insists that the railway line will be completed this year, and trains will transport both containers and passengers.

Despite delays in the railway construction, the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Interoceanic Corridor promises to revolutionize the region’s economic activities and growth. What do you think about this ambitious project? Let us know your thoughts!

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