NEW YORK — New York City leaders renewed efforts to ban horse-drawn carriage rides in Central Park this week after the death of an 18-year-old tourist from India in a runaway carriage accident, prompting a renewed debate over public safety, animal welfare and the future of a longstanding tourist attraction.
The push intensified after Romanch Mahajan, who was visiting New York with his family, died on June 17 following an incident in Central Park, according to police and city officials. Authorities said the horse pulling the carriage bolted after the driver stepped away from the vehicle. The carriage later struck another horse-drawn carriage and overturned. Mahajan suffered fatal injuries after leaving the carriage during the incident, officials said.
In the aftermath of the accident, Mayor Zohran Mamdani reiterated his support for ending horse-drawn carriage operations in Central Park. According to statements reported by local media and the Associated Press, Mamdani said he would work with the City Council, industry representatives and animal welfare advocates to pursue a transition away from the carriage industry while protecting workers.
City Council Speaker Julie Menin also called for action. In a statement issued this week, Menin and Council Member Lynn Schulman said the council would hold a hearing in July on proposed legislation known as Ryder’s Law, which seeks to address concerns related to horse-drawn carriages and public safety. “It is now time to act,” the lawmakers said in the statement.
Supporters of a ban argue that the fatal accident, along with several horse-related incidents reported in the park over the past year, demonstrates the risks associated with the industry. The Central Park Conservancy has backed calls for stronger measures and supported consideration of legislation that would phase out carriage rides.
Industry representatives and carriage owners, however, have opposed an outright ban. The Transport Workers Union Local 100, which represents carriage drivers and owners, temporarily suspended carriage operations while reviewing safety procedures. Union officials expressed condolences to Mahajan’s family and said reforms, including enhanced safety measures, should be considered. “We’re absolutely gutted and stunned by this tragedy,” union vice president Alexander Kemp said.
Horse-drawn carriage rides remained suspended as of Friday while safety reviews continued. A City Council hearing on Ryder’s Law is scheduled for July, and city officials have not announced a final decision on whether the industry will ultimately be banned.
