Mexico announces 2,400 km passenger rail expansion plan

President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced a major national railway expansion plan, aiming to construct 2,400 kilometers of passenger train tracks during her six-year term. The project involves an estimated investment of 750 billion pesos and is expected to connect various regions, reduce travel times by an average of 40%, and support approximately 60,000 direct jobs.

Key passenger routes currently under construction include the AIFA-Pachuca line, which has reached 45% progress, and the Mexico City-Querétaro route at 31%. The Querétaro-Irapuato line is at 22%, while the Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo project stands at 10%. Operations for the AIFA-Pachuca and Mexico City-Querétaro lines are projected to begin in 2027.

Additionally, the Maya Train freight component is progressing, with a 67% completion rate. This project aims to establish a logistics corridor through intermodal terminals in locations such as Cancún, Palenque, Mérida, Progreso, and Chetumal. The freight infrastructure includes the rehabilitation of old tracks and the construction of new lines to connect industrial zones with the national rail network. The development is also fostering local technical expertise, with regional graduates participating in construction and maintenance.