Tragic Accident in Central Park Spurs Debate on Horse-Drawn Carriages

The Mahajan family’s trip to New York City took a tragic turn on the third day of their visit. Deepak Mahajan shared the devastating news on Friday about his son, Romanch, who passed away following an accident with a horse-drawn carriage in Central Park. The family was on a 10-day vacation, celebrating Romanch’s graduation and university acceptance in India.

On Wednesday, Romanch, along with his parents, Deepak and Priya, and his younger brother, Maanik, chose to experience a horse-drawn carriage ride in Central Park. The ride included stops for photos. Near the end, the driver left the carriage to take a family picture, at which point the horse suddenly ran off.

Romanch tragically fell from the carriage, hitting his head on the pavement. He was reportedly trying to protect his mother, Priya. Though rushed to a hospital, Romanch succumbed to his injuries. The rest of the family suffered minor injuries.

Deepak Mahajan described Romanch as tall, smart, and obedient, stating that losing him is a significant loss for their family. Romanch’s uncle, Guarav Mahajan, remembered him for his helpful and sincere nature, expressing their family’s hope for Romanch’s entrepreneurial future.

Following the accident, the Transport Workers Union stopped horse carriage operations in Central Park to review safety protocols. The union mentioned that the driver was not supposed to leave the carriage and has since been suspended. The horse involved will no longer work in the park.

The Mahajans have called for stricter safety measures to prevent similar tragedies. The Consulate General of India offered their support to the family during this difficult time. Romanch’s death is reportedly the first human fatality linked to horse carriages in Central Park’s history of over 150 years.

The incident reignited debates about banning horse-drawn carriages in Central Park. Animal advocates and some officials argue for the ban due to safety and health concerns. The Central Park Conservancy and New York City Council member Christopher Marte are among those pushing for legislative changes.

In the past 13 months, there have been eight horse-related incidents in the park. A recent proposal, Ryder’s Law, seeks to ban horse-drawn carriages and provide job alternatives for affected drivers. Another bill suggests reforms like installing hitching posts to help secure horses during rides.