The Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway, also known as the Trans-Isthmian Railway, isa major railway line in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, connecting the ports of Salina Cruz on the Pacific Ocean with Medias Aguas on the Gulf of Mexico. Built in the late 19th century, it has been essential for freight transport and as a key communications corridor in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec region. However, the line has deteriorated over time, and trains can currently operate at a maximum speed of just 40 km/h. Line Z of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway is part of the Interoceanic Corridor, which will connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, together with the Tren Maya through Line FA, and Central America via railway lines K and KA. The rehabilitation and realignment project for Line Z of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway aims to improve overall conditions along the line between the ports of Coatzacoalcos in Veracruz and Salina Cruz in Oaxaca. The project’s objectives include increasing current commercial speed, operational efficiency, annual freight volumes, and operating revenues, while also improving accessibility and mobility between both ports. To achieve this, modifications to the geometric and operational characteristics of the track were required. In the Medias Aguas–Ubero section, curvature and gradient corrections were carried out over 56 km, along with the rehabilitation of 42 km of track, including the connection to the Port of Salina Cruz. During the execution process, the existing track was dismantled and a new railway superstructure constructed on the same alignment. In addition, three railway bridge projects were designed and executed in line with the existing preliminary design. New technologies were apllied throughout the project including the use of triaxial geogrids to replace the sub-ballast layer, thereby improving the quality and strength of the railway infrastructure. As part of the Isthmus Railway project 158 social projects have been implemented across the municipalities along its route. These include the creation of parks and sports facilities, generating 7,500 new jobs. The project also has a strong environmental approach. In four of the zones where industrial activity is planned along the corridor, wind and hybrid energy will be used. This means that part of the energy consumed will come from wind sources. Additionally, productive projects will be promoted in sectors such as agro-industry, textiles, metallurgy, and electromobility. Railway Rehabilitation Line Z
Section: Salina Cruz Port – Medias Aguas Rehabilitation of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Railway
Description
Innovations
Sustainability
Related projects
42 km
LENGTH
México
COUNTRY
$ 700 MDP
INVESTMENT
FIT
Client
Rehabilitation
Contract type
2020-2023
Execution period
