In a significant stride towards improving transportation infrastructure, President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo recently showcased the ongoing construction of the Mexico-Pachuca train project. This ambitious venture aims to connect the bustling capital of Mexico City with the city of Pachuca, located in the state of Hidalgo, in a swift and efficient manner.
On March 22, 2025, Sheinbaum inaugurated the construction works, which are being managed by the Agrupamiento de Ingenieros Felipe Ángeles of the Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Sedena). The project is not just a critical part of her administration's commitment to revitalizing the country’s railway infrastructure, but it also aims to benefit over 1.2 million individuals once operational.
“Let’s go all out!” Sheinbaum expressed on social media, emphasizing her enthusiasm for the project as she shared images of the construction progress. These images reveal substantial excavation work along the planned route, showcasing the dedication of military engineers and construction workers involved in the project.
The Mexico-Pachuca train is designed to operate at a maximum speed of 120 kilometers per hour and will feature a double electrified track spanning 57 kilometers. The journey from the Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Ángeles (AIFA) to Pachuca is expected to take only 38 minutes, significantly reducing travel time from the previous 40 minutes. This time-saving measure reflects a broader goal of enhancing connectivity within the region.
According to estimates from the federal government, the train service will accommodate more than 83,000 passengers daily, making it a vital transportation option for commuters. The entire journey from Mexico City to Pachuca will take approximately one hour and 10 minutes, a marked improvement over current travel times.
Sheinbaum's vision extends beyond just speed; the project is also environmentally conscious. The train is touted as electric, non-polluting, and silent, aligning with global efforts to promote sustainable transportation solutions.
Moreover, the train will integrate seamlessly with other public transportation systems. It will connect with the Tren Suburbano Buenavista-Cuautitlán and the Tuzobús in Pachuca, allowing for easy transfers and enhancing overall mobility for users. Stations and stops are planned in various locations, including Xaltocan II, Tizayuca, Temascalapa, and Tepojaco in the State of Mexico, as well as Empalme El Rey, the Platah industrial park, and Jagüey de Téllez in Hidalgo.
As part of the project, a station will be established in Pachuca, which will not only serve as a transportation hub but will also include public services and a small commercial area, further stimulating local economies.
The construction of the Mexico-Pachuca train is expected to be completed by November 2026, with ongoing efforts to secure the necessary land for the right of way. Ricardo Vallejo Suárez, commander of the Agrupamiento de Ingenieros Felipe Ángeles, indicated that the government is actively working to release 33% of the pending right of way for the AIFA-Pachuca section.
The train project represents a vital step in the Mexican government's broader initiative to expand and modernize its railway network, which aims to create approximately 3,000 kilometers of passenger train routes across the country. This extensive network is envisioned to enhance regional connectivity and provide a reliable alternative to road transport.
In summary, the Mexico-Pachuca train project is not merely about speed and efficiency; it embodies a commitment to sustainable development, economic growth, and improved public transportation options for millions of residents in the region. As construction progresses, the anticipation surrounding this project continues to build, promising a transformative impact on how people travel between Mexico City and Pachuca.
