Whoever wants to build the Mayan Train will have a lot of explaining to do.
Bids on the project will have to propose station location, ways to run the line though populated areas, evaluate archaeological and environmental impact and propose logistics for the entire thing.
The Phase 1 bid entails the basic engineering for the section of the Mayan Train from Escárcega, Campeche, to Bacalar and Cancún, Quintana Roo.
“The Service Provider must define the best route of the Section in such a way that: (1) users are allowed comfort, safety and good operation of the railway; (2) construction and maintenance costs of the railway are minimized, taking into account the technical, environmental, social and safety regulations for this type of project and the design criteria developed,” reads the request for proposals.
The interested parties will have to propose three alternatives for crossing populated areas, and deal with power lines and telecommunications.
They will also have to hire an independent railway supervisor who will review and supervise the execution of the work.
But the call does not mention so-called “wildlife steps” that would seek to reduce the impact of the work on ecosystems where the train will pass.
The project will be paid for by a combination of government and private investment. The Mayan Train is estimated to cost between 120 billion and 150 billion pesos
Source: Punto Medio
