Mayan Train
A 1,500-kilometer project in the southeast of Mexico, the mega-work of the Mayan train will pass through
the states of Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán and Quintana Roo.
Characteristics
The Mayan Train, in southeastern Mexico, runs through the states of Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán and Quintana Roo.
The train offers three different services:
Regional
It functions as a means of transport between nearby cities and allows easy travel for locals and foreigners.
Tourist
The train has a unique design and its route covers archaeological sites, magical towns and beach destinations of tourist interest.
Cargo
It facilitates the transportation of goods through southeastern Mexico, saving costs, delivery times and environmental impact.
The mega project covers 1,500 kilometers with 34 stations and stops with 690 kilometers of electrified tracks.
The Tsíimin K’áak fleet is used for the Mayan Train, which is part of the Alstom family of trains and is a hybrid model (diesel-electric) where each train is made up of between 4 and 7 cars each.
The owner of the Mayan Train is the company OMM (Olmeca-Maya-Mexica), which is a company with a majority state participation of the Government of Mexico.
Grupo Aeroportuario, Ferroviario y de Servicios Auxiliares Olmeca-Maya-Mexica, S.A de C.V. is under the control of the National Defense Secretariat (SEDENA).
Services
Passengers
A total of 42 train cars have been manufactured at the Ciudad Sahagún plant in Hidalgo.
Long distance passengers
The railways, called P’atal, provide seats with reclining backrests and cabins for resting, specially designed for long-distance travel.
Regular passenger service
Regular passenger transport is provided by the train called Xiinbal, which means “walk or walking.”
This train offers first-class seats, standard seats, and a cafe car.
The service is aimed at both local passengers who use it frequently and at tourists and occasional passengers.
Passengers and restaurant
The Janal train service features an onboard restaurant that has panoramic views of the outside landscape, while the interior is inspired by the architectural work of Luis Barragán.
The restaurant offers different layout options and seating configurations to make the most of the space in an environment of elegance and natural beauty.
Types of Trains
Xiinbal
This train pays homage to regional festivities and features décor inspired by the culture of southeastern Mexico. Inside, passengers can enjoy panoramic windows, security cameras, and a special cafeteria car. Seats are available in two classes: tourist and first class.
Janal
Also known as the food train, it is designed for tourism and features a beautiful waterscape design. This train features a restaurant and a variety of seating configurations for two or four people, optimizing the space inside. It runs through all the stations of the Maya Train.
P´tal
This “accommodation” train is designed for long trips, with spaces to relax or work. Passengers can notice its focus on comfort in the cars that feature cabins, allowing travelers to convert their seat into a bed and rest during the trip. The P’tal is for those who want to enjoy the Mayan Train even more.
Services for goods
The freight industry is vital to economic growth in Mexico, according to a recent OECD report on rail freight regulation.
Rail services are essential for the transportation of raw materials and industrial products, including grains, agricultural products, metals and minerals.
In addition, the automotive industry also depends on this mode of transport for its production chains in North America.
Fortunately, the demand for freight services in Mexico has increased significantly in recent years.
The advantages of transporting goods by train are numerous, such as greater load capacity, lower operating costs and lower environmental impact.
Rail transport is safer, more efficient and more environmentally friendly than private transport (trucks) and air transport.
In addition, polluting emissions and energy use are significantly lower per tonne and kilometre travelled.
In addition, the frequency of departure and arrival is stable and the high capacity allows for the transport of a greater number of products.
To further improve the freight industry in Mexico, trains have loading stations located in San Francisco de Campeche, Mérida, Cancún and Chetumal.
These stations have areas for receiving trains and for loading and unloading goods.
With these improvements, freight transport by train is more efficient, safe and economical than ever.
Jungle, Gulf and Caribbean
The 1,550 kilometers are divided into 7 sections with their respective stations and stops.
To see the complete route of the Mayan Train, press the following button.
Mayan Train: A Transformative Project
The Mayan Train is the largest infrastructure project to be developed within a single six-year term of a president in the 200-year history of Mexican politics.
This mega transport project, promoted by the administration of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), aims to transform mobility and economic development in southeastern Mexico, connecting diverse communities and promoting tourism and investment in the region.
The train is not only a feat of engineering and logistics, but also a symbol of the Mexican government’s vision for a more connected and prosperous future.
With a route spanning 1,550 kilometers, the Mayan Train promises to be a source of inspiration and a model to follow in terms of design, efficiency and functionality.
History and Development of the Mayan Train
The conception of the Mayan Train dates back to the early stages of AMLO’s government, who identified the need to improve transport infrastructure in southeastern Mexico.
The idea was to facilitate the movement of people and goods, as well as boost economic and social development in a historically marginalized region.
The project was officially launched in 2018, with a series of feasibility studies and consultations with local communities.
From the beginning, the Mayan Train was conceived as a comprehensive development initiative, combining modern transportation with the promotion of sustainable tourism and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage.
Construction began in 2020, facing numerous logistical and environmental challenges.
However, thanks to meticulous planning and collaboration between the government, construction companies and local communities, the project advanced at an impressive pace.
In record time, the sections of the track have been completed, and the train is expected to be fully operational in October 2024.
Economic and Social Benefits of the Mayan Train
The Mayan Train not only transforms transportation in southeastern Mexico, but also brings with it a number of economic and social benefits.
This initiative has generated thousands of direct and indirect jobs during its construction and operation, providing a vital source of income for many families in the region.
In addition, the train facilitates access to markets and services, improving the quality of life of local communities.
By connecting towns and cities that were previously isolated, the Mayan Train encourages trade and investment, stimulating economic growth and reducing poverty in the region.
Tourism is another sector that benefits greatly from the Mayan Train.
By providing a comfortable and efficient form of transportation, the train attracts more national and international tourists, who can explore the cultural and natural wonders of southeastern Mexico.
This not only generates income for local businesses, but also promotes the conservation of cultural and natural heritage.
Design and Efficiency of the Maya Train: A Global Example
The design of the Mayan Train has been praised for its modernity and functionality.
Using cutting-edge technology, the train offers a comfortable and safe ride for passengers, with carriages equipped with all necessary amenities.
In addition, the train has been designed with sustainability in mind, using renewable energy and minimising its environmental impact.
The efficiency of the Mayan Train has also been a highlight.
Despite logistical and environmental challenges, the project has progressed at a rapid pace, completing significant sections of the track in record time.
This has been possible thanks to detailed planning and collaboration between all the actors involved.
International Recognition and Opinions on the Mayan Train
The Mayan Train has received praise from personalities and travelers from around the world.
Its design, efficiency, and functionality have been highlighted as examples of what can be achieved with proper planning and execution.
Many have compared the Mayan Train to the railway systems of Europe and Asia, noting that Mexico is positioning itself as a leader in railway infrastructure.
Renowned personalities from the world of transportation and engineering have visited the Mayan Train, praising its construction and operation.
These praises not only validate the effort of the Mexican government, but also put the Mayan Train on the map as one of the most comfortable, aesthetic, and functional trains in the world.
The Future of Rail Transport in Mexico: The New Mayan Train
The success of the Mayan Train has inspired new infrastructure projects in Mexico.
Mexico’s next president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has announced plans to double the number of railway tracks in the country.
This new project, known as “El Nuevo Tren Maya” or “El Tren Maya 2.0”, will cover nearly 3,000 kilometers from central Mexico to the US border.
This project promises to further improve mobility in Mexico, providing a first-class railway network that will connect all regions of the country.
With this new infrastructure, Mexico will position itself at the level of European countries in terms of rail transport.
Impact of the Mayan Train on National Mobility
The Mayan Train not only improves mobility in southeastern Mexico, but also has a significant impact on national mobility.
By connecting various regions of the country, the train facilitates the movement of people and goods, reducing travel times and improving transport efficiency.
This not only benefits passengers, but also boosts trade and investment, stimulating economic growth throughout the country.
In addition, by providing an alternative to road transport, the Mayan Train contributes to reducing congestion and pollution, improving the quality of life of Mexicans.
Comparison of the Maya Train with International Railway Projects
The Mayan Train has been compared favorably to other international rail projects.
Its modern and efficient design, along with its focus on sustainability, put it on par with rail systems in Europe and Asia.
Like these systems, the Mayan Train offers comfortable and safe transportation, using cutting-edge technology to ensure a pleasant journey for passengers.
Furthermore, its focus on sustainability sets it apart from many other projects, proving that it is possible to build modern infrastructure without compromising the environment.
Construction
The symbolic placement of the first sleeper in Palenque on December 16, 2018 marked the symbolic start of the construction of the Maya Train.
In June 2020, construction formally began and work was assigned to several construction companies for different sections of the project.
Mota-Engil México SAPI and China Communications Construction Company LTD would be in charge of section 1, Operadora CICSA and FCC Construcción of section 2, Construcciones Urales and GAMI Ingeniería e Instalaciones of section 3, and Grupo ICA of section 4.
In September 2020, Fonatur rejected an investment proposal for the fifth section of the project, but in February 2021 it awarded a contract to Acciona and Grupo México for a section of electrified double track.
Plans for the passenger trains called for them to be diesel-electric and reach speeds of up to 160 km/h from January 2021.
Fonatur also contracted Alstom in May 2021 to supply rolling stock and signalling and control equipment for the train system. As of June 2021, the project was 10% complete.
Financing
The Mexican government’s rail project, led by the National Fund for Tourism Development (Fonatur), was financed by a tourism tax and funds diverted from other government programs.
Charging stations have been built in San Francisco de Campeche, Merida, Cancun and Chetumal.
President López Obrador announced that the armed forces would operate the train and that the profits would be used to strengthen the finances of pensioners and retirees of the armed forces.
CAT Program
GATO: Operational Technical Support Group.
The project began with the release of two female jaguars rescued in Calakmul four years ago and now seeks to establish community Environmental Management Units in each of the seven sections of the Mayan Train.
These units have veterinary care and rehabilitation facilities for large mammals, such as jaguars and tapirs, to help conserve the species.
When these female jaguars adapt to their natural habitat, they will be able to find mates and have up to 18 offspring in their lifetime, which will help increase the population of endangered jaguars.
The Legacy of the Mayan Train in Mexican Infrastructure
The Mayan Train is more than just an infrastructure project; it is a symbol of the Mexican government’s vision and commitment to a more connected and prosperous future.
By transforming mobility and economic development in southeastern Mexico, the Mayan Train will leave a lasting legacy that will benefit generations to come.
With the success of the Mayan Train and plans for the “New Maya Train,” Mexico is positioning itself as a leader in rail infrastructure, proving that it is possible to build large-scale projects that are sustainable and efficient.
This is just the beginning of a new era for transportation in Mexico, and the future promises even more innovations and improvements in the country’s mobility.