MEXICO CITY - President Andrés Manuel López Obrador unveiled the first phase of the Maya Train project on Friday, marking a significant milestone for his administration. The $20 billion project aims to connect beach resorts and archaeological sites on a 950-mile loop around the Yucatan peninsula.

The inauguration ceremony welcomed officials, dignitaries, and members of the press, as the first train cars set off on a 290-mile stretch between Campeche and Cancún. This initial section covers approximately one-third of the total project and is the least controversial portion.

With an average speed of 50 miles per hour, the journey from Campeche to Cancún is estimated to take around 5 1/2 hours. However, authorities have assured that the train will eventually reach speeds of up to 75 mph. The train will operate twice daily in both directions, making stops at various locations, including the colonial city of Merida and the renowned Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza.

Initially, there were plans to offer separate fare prices for Mexicans and foreign tourists, but the tickets released for the first runs were categorized as first-class and "tourist class," with no distinction for nationality. Prices for first-class tickets on the Cancún to Merida route were listed at $68, slightly higher than the cost of a first-class bus ticket, which is approximately $58.

President López Obrador emphasized the significance of this project, stating that it will establish a connection between Cancún and destinations like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Calakmul, and Palenque. He praised the achievement, claiming that there are no comparable public works projects in the world, further highlighting the record-setting speed at which it was executed.

The inauguration of this section of the Maya Train faced less opposition as it mainly utilized an existing train line. However, the remaining two-thirds of the project, which cuts through jungles and sensitive cave systems containing important relics, has been met with objections from environmentalists.

President López Obrador has faced criticism for fast-tracking the Maya Train project, bypassing normal permitting processes, public reporting, and environmental impact assessments. He defends his decision, arguing that it is essential for national security.

It is worth noting that the Mexican army played a significant role in the construction of the Maya Train, and the armed forces will oversee its operation. This project exemplifies López Obrador's inclination towards involving the military in various initiatives, with the armed forces taking on more responsibilities than any other administration in recent history.

López Obrador, known for his passion for trains, state-owned companies, and the armed forces, had previously announced his intention to require private rail companies to provide passenger services or allow the government to schedule its own trains on their tracks.

The Maya Train project holds great significance for Mexico, aiming to revive passenger rail services that have significantly diminished since a 1995 reform. Currently, the country is serviced by two private railway companies, Ferromex and a subsidiary of U.S. railway Kansas City Southern, with limited tourist train routes to popular destinations.

President López Obrador remains determined to complete the entire Maya Train before his term ends in September, despite the opposition from ecologists, cave divers, and archaeologists concerned about the impact on valuable cave systems and ancient remains in the region.

As the Maya Train embarks on its first leg, tourists and locals alike eagerly anticipate the enhanced connectivity and access it will bring to the Yucatan peninsula's unique cultural and natural treasures.