Mexico’s Railway Expansion to Connect 49 Million People by 2025

The Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT) has unveiled significant developments in the country’s railway infrastructure with the launch of new passenger transport projects that are set to connect over 49 million people. 

In 2023, the construction of two major railway routes started: the Mexico-Pachuca route in March and the Mexico-Queretaro route in April. These projects, part of a broader vision outlined in the National Railway Plan, aim to enhance connectivity across the country. The next phase includes the Queretaro-Irapuato and Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo trains, which are expected to begin operations in July 2025. The completion of these four routes, part of the first phase of the initiative, will cover a total of about 786km.

This expansion represents a transformative step in integrating six suburban zones, 11 municipal metropolises, and 19 metropolitan areas, significantly boosting intercity connections across the country. With the new routes, millions of people will benefit from easier and faster travel options, fostering economic development and regional integration.

The National Railway Plan has been hailed by authorities as a key driver for regional economic growth. As detailed in the proposal submitted by the Federal Executive to Congress, the railway project is expected to generate up to 1 million jobs, helping to boost the local economies and improve the quality of life of the population. The interconnected rail network will provide more accessible transport options for residents and increase mobility for goods, contributing to broader economic activities.

In addition to the expected economic impacts, the railway expansion aims to reduce Mexico’s carbon footprint. By providing an alternative to road transportation, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the railway system will help lower the country’s environmental impact. The reduction in travel time, coupled with the more sustainable nature of rail transport.

This project involves the construction of over 3,000km of passenger rail tracks that will connect Mexico City to Nuevo Laredo and Nogales. The plan encompasses four essential routes: Mexico-Pachuca, Mexico-Queretaro, Queretaro-Irapuato, and Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo. The initiative is being developed by an interdisciplinary team that includes the SICT, the Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA), the Ministry of Agrarian, Land, and Urban Development (SEDATU), the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), and various other federal and local agencies.