Archaeologists detect thousands of ruins along Mexico's Maya Train route

Archaeology experts in Mexico say they have detected the ruins of almost 2,500 pre-Hispanic structures and 80 burial sites along a controversial train route project on the Yucatan peninsula. Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History did not say whether any of the remains were disturbed or destroyed by the Maya Train project, which in some places runs alongside existing rail lines. The finds range from simple stone outlines of thatched pre-Hispanic Maya homes to ceremonial platforms. Potential damage to the environment and archaeological sites are some of the reasons why critics oppose the project. The train is intended to connect Caribbean beach resorts to the peninsula’s interior in a bid to stimulate economic development.