Introduction and Background
Under the suggestion of President Claudia Sheinbaum, a passenger train connecting Mexico City and Nuevo Laredo, spanning 1,200 km, will be named the Gulf of Mexico Train. The aim is to inaugurate the entire route before her term ends in 2030. This ambitious project is already underway, with segments being developed non-consecutively by military engineers and private companies.
Who is Claudia Sheinbaum?
Claudia Sheinbaum is the current Head of Government of Mexico City, serving since 2018. As a prominent figure in Mexican politics, she has been instrumental in driving various infrastructure projects aimed at improving the city’s connectivity and economic growth.
Why is this project relevant?
The Mexico-Nuevo Laredo train is a significant undertaking that will connect two major economic hubs, fostering trade and investment opportunities between Mexico City, central states, and the US border. The project’s successful implementation will boost regional development and contribute to Mexico’s overall economic growth.
Project Progress and Key Players
The project is divided into several segments, with the first two already awarded to private companies:
- ICA was assigned 100.05 km of the Mexico-Querétaro route, which also serves as a trunk line for the Mexico-Nogales route.
- Operadora CICSA was given 111 km of the Saltillo-Santa Catarina segment.
The Agency for Rail Transport Regulation (ARTF) has recently announced the award of another 136 km segment (Arroyo El Sauz-Nuevo Laredo) following an international bidding process. Five technical and economic proposals were received, with the lowest coming from Gami Ingeniería e Instalaciones and the highest from Constructora de Proyectos Viales de México.
Military Involvement
General Gustavo Ricardo Vallejo Suárez, commander of the Felipe Ángeles Engineer Group, emphasized their commitment and experience in railway construction. The group has recently completed 880 km of tracks, including bridges and related works. They are enthusiastic about continuing to develop passenger trains, including the Lechería-Felipe Ángeles International Airport line.
Role of the Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Defensa)
The Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Defensa) is responsible for basic engineering tasks, providing essential technical information for tender and contract processes. They are currently working on the basic engineering for over 3,000 km of passenger routes planned during this six-year term.
Impact on the Economy and Commuters
The new train will cater to the growing demand for passenger transportation, particularly in industrial areas like Ramos Arizpe. Connecting this region to the train service will facilitate commuting and boost economic activities.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the total length of the Mexico-Nuevo Laredo train route? The complete route spans 1,200 km.
- Who suggested renaming the train? President Claudia Sheinbaum proposed renaming it the Gulf of Mexico Train.
- What segments have already been awarded to private companies? ICA was assigned 100.05 km of the Mexico-Querétaro route, and Operadora CICSA was given 111 km of the Saltillo-Santa Catarina segment.
- What is the role of military engineers in this project? Military engineers are contributing their expertise in constructing railway tracks and providing basic engineering support for tender processes.
- What impact will the train have on the local economy? The train is expected to stimulate trade, investment, and commuting in industrial areas along its route, ultimately contributing to regional economic growth.
