Mexico's Rail Crisis Deepens as Accidents and Crime Surge Unchecked

Mexico's rail network has faced persistent safety and security challenges over the past five years. Between 2020 and early 2025, the system recorded over 7,000 accidents, with theft and vandalism adding to the growing concerns. Despite government efforts, incidents remain frequent, raising questions about the effectiveness of recent reforms.

From 2020 to the first quarter of 2025, Mexico's railways saw 7,000 accidents, including 1,499 derailments. One of the most serious was the December 28, 2024, crash of the Interoceanic Train in Oaxaca. Vehicle-train collisions were the leading cause, often due to traffic violations and driver errors.

External factors accounted for 70% of all incidents, with fatalities and injuries rising each year. By 2025, the accidents had resulted in 372 deaths and 837 injuries. Despite federal safety campaigns, accident rates have stayed nearly the same year after year.

Crime on the railways has also surged, with 50,000 reported cases of theft and vandalism. Theft alone reached 21,757 incidents, mostly targeting agricultural goods, timber, and other cargo. Vandalism reports totalled 44,899 over the same period.

In response, the government boosted security by adding federal police patrols, installing surveillance cameras, and working with state authorities. Yet independent experts argue these measures have done little to curb robberies or disrupt organised crime groups controlling key rail routes. Security incidents have continued unabated through 2025.

The rail system's struggles persist, with accidents, thefts, and vandalism showing no sign of decline. Federal efforts to improve safety and security have so far failed to reduce the frequency of incidents. The ongoing issues highlight the challenges of protecting Mexico's railways from both operational risks and criminal activity.