In June 2025, construction on the Oaxaca-Istmo highway—one of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s flagship infrastructure projects—faced a major setback when a tunnel segment collapsed near the town of Santo Domingo Tepuxtepec. The incident occurred along the Mitla-Tehuantepec route, a key corridor intended to connect the Pacific and Gulf coasts as part of the broader Interoceanic Corridor initiative.
The collapse, which happened during the final stages of construction, did not result in injuries but raised serious concerns about engineering oversight and project management. Initial reports suggest that heavy rainfall and unstable soil conditions may have contributed to the structural failure. The affected tunnel was part of a mountainous stretch that had already experienced delays due to complex terrain and disputes with local communities.
President López Obrador acknowledged the incident during a morning press conference, expressing frustration over the delay but reaffirming his commitment to completing the highway. “We’re just a few kilometers away from finishing a project that’s been in the works for over 15 years,” he said, urging local stakeholders to avoid further conflict and allow the work to proceed.
The Oaxaca-Istmo highway is a critical component of the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, a strategic development plan aimed at boosting trade, logistics, and economic growth in southern Mexico. The project includes highways, railways, and industrial hubs designed to rival the Panama Canal as a commercial route.
The tunnel collapse has sparked renewed scrutiny of the project’s execution, particularly the role of Grupo Carso, the construction firm responsible for the segment. As investigations continue, federal authorities have promised a full review of safety protocols and engineering standards.
Despite the setback, officials remain optimistic that the highway will be completed by the end of 2025, albeit with a revised timeline and reinforced safety measures.
Sources El Heraldo de Mexico /TV Azteca Oaxaca
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