Railway Infrastructure Projects in the Current Administration

By @dM1nBlog
As part of the National Development Plan created by Andrés Manuel López Obrador and the Fourth Transformation (4T), the railway industry plays a crucial role. The federal government has proposed fifteen projects for the coming years, with plans to complete at least six before the end of the term. The idea of making the Mexican Railway System a cornerstone of the nation’s economy is not surprising, considering that globally, trains have regained popularity, both for passenger transport and freight movement.

In Mexico, the railway industry is investing in both modes, with a total investment of 672 billion pesos (MDP). Here are the projects already under construction:

  1. Maya Train: This controversial passenger train has faced criticism from environmentalists and public figures. It is currently fighting a definitive suspension granted by a judge for the Tulum-Playa del Carmen section. Operations are expected to begin in December 2023.
  2. Mexico-Toluca Interurban Train: After eight years of construction, this 58-kilometer line with seven stations is expected to be inaugurated in September of next year.
  3. Lechería-AIFA Suburban Train Branch: This project is crucial to the success of the new Felipe Ángeles International Airport. Although construction is scheduled to be completed by 2023, significant delays suggest a later date.
  4. Tehuantepec Isthmus Railway: One of Mexico’s most extensive and ambitious railway projects, connecting the ports of Coatzacoalcos in Veracruz and Salina Cruz in Oaxaca. It will carry both freight and passengers.
  5. Celaya Bypass: This project has been under construction for twelve years and is expected to be completed in 2024. It currently has 58% physical progress.
  6. Monterrey East Bypass: A 21-kilometer project funded by Ferromex. Although it was scheduled to begin operations this year, three legal challenges related to land rights still need to be resolved.

Mexico’s Railway Industry in Motion

Other upcoming projects include the Line 4 of Guadalajara Light Rail, the García-Monterrey Airport Suburban Train, and the Mexico to Querétaro-León Train, among others. In total, these fifteen projects will add 1,574 kilometers to the Mexican Railway System.

What impact will these plans have on the country’s economy? First, within a few years, many cities will have the train as a more accessible, safe, and comfortable transportation option (considering that much of the Mexican territory lacks metro services).

Additionally, regional connectivity will improve; populations in remote areas will gain access to employment opportunities and shorter distances to basic goods. Lastly, import and export operations will benefit from lower costs and reduced transit times. For this reason, foreign investment is closely monitoring developments within the Mexican Railway System.

Despite the highs and lows of the Fourth Transformation’s projects, it’s clear that in the coming years, we will witness interesting proposals that will significantly boost the country’s economy. At Track Speq, we believe the train will remain a vital tool due to its practicality and the benefits it brings to various sectors.

If you need advice or services related to the railway industry, feel free to contact us!

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