First Segment of Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo Train Launches in Nuevo León

Web Editor

September 9, 2025

a man in a suit standing on a train track next to a train car and a train track with a train on it,

Key Details and Background

In a ceremony held in Salinas Victoria, Nuevo León, Governor Samuel García initiated the construction of the first segment of the Saltillo-Monterrey-Nuevo Laredo train line. This 100 km stretch is part of the larger 396 km route connecting Saltillo to Nuevo Laredo, expected to serve approximately 7 million annual passengers.

Who is Samuel García?

Samuel García is the current governor of Nuevo León, a state in northeastern Mexico. Elected in 2019, he represents the Citizens’ Movement party and is known for his focus on infrastructure development, education, and economic growth in the region.

Why is this project significant?

The Saltillo-Monterrey-Nuevo Laredo train line is a crucial transportation project for Nuevo León, aiming to improve connectivity and mobility within the state. The line will benefit both residents and businesses by facilitating travel between major cities, reducing transportation costs, and stimulating economic growth.

Project Details

  • Segment Length: The initial 100 km segment in Nuevo León connects the towns of Unión San Javier and Monterrey.
  • Total Route Length: The full Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo route spans 396 km, linking three significant cities in northeastern Mexico.
  • Annual Passengers: The train is expected to serve around 7 million passengers annually, enhancing mobility for a large population.
  • Speed: The trains will travel at speeds between 160 and 200 km/h, reducing travel time significantly.
  • Infrastructure: The project includes a viaduct, 15 vehicle crossings, one elevated vehicle crossing, 30 railway bridges, and 146 drainage works.

Support and Collaboration

Governor García emphasized the importance of collaboration with federal authorities, as this project aligns with existing transportation lines (lines 4 and 6). This partnership aims to optimize the overall passenger transportation network in Nuevo León.

Additional Infrastructure Initiatives

Trenes de Repavimentación:

Following the train launch event, Jesús Esteva, Secretary of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation, announced plans to incorporate “trenes de repavimentación” (repaving trains) into the federal budget for the following year. These specialized trains will maintain and improve Mexico’s federal highways, ensuring their longevity and safety.

The goal is for each state to have a dedicated repaving train by 2026, addressing the extensive road network and promoting efficient highway maintenance.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who initiated the construction of the first segment? Governor Samuel García of Nuevo León.
  • What is the length of the initial segment in Nuevo León? 100 km, connecting Unión San Javier and Monterrey.
  • What is the total length of the Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo train route? 396 km, linking Saltillo, Monterrey, and Nuevo Laredo.
  • How many annual passengers are expected to use the train? Approximately 7 million.
  • What are the planned speeds for the trains? Between 160 and 200 km/h.
  • What additional infrastructure initiatives were announced? The use of “trenes de repavimentación” (repaving trains) for maintaining Mexico’s federal highways.