New York City officials renew calls to end the horse-drawn carriage industry in Central Park following the death of an Indian teenager, Romanch Mahajan. Multiple outlets report that the incident occurred during a family trip celebrating his high school graduation. Mahajan’s account describes a carriage horse bolting from its driver, after which Mahajan’s mother fell out. Mahajan then jumped from the carriage and hit his head on the ground. He later died, and his death is described as possibly the first fatal accident involving a horse-drawn carriage since the service began more than 150 years ago.
In response, New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani and other leaders state they will work toward putting an end to the 150-year-old industry. NDTV says Mamdani supports phasing out horse-drawn carriages while working with relevant parties to protect carriage workers. Other reports similarly describe the push as a renewed push for a ban or end to the rides, framed around safety concerns for riders and workers.
