NEW YORK, NY — The death of 18-year-old tourist Romanch Mahajan has become a new flashpoint in New York City’s long-running fight over horse-drawn carriages. His parents told City Council members they do not want another family to endure the same loss after he was thrown from a carriage on June 17.
Their testimony came at a hearing on legislation that would shut down the carriage industry in the city. The proposal is now drawing fresh attention from lawmakers, animal welfare groups and public figures after the fatal crash.
What happened in the June 17 carriage crash?
Authorities said the carriage Mahajan was riding became startled before he was thrown from it. He later died from his injuries after what officials described as a fatal fall from the horse-drawn ride.
The incident has been cited by supporters of a ban as a stark example of the risks they say are built into the industry. The crash also revived concerns about rider safety in crowded city streets and tourist areas.
Why are Mahajan’s parents pressing lawmakers now?
Speaking before council members, Mahajan’s parents said their lives have been permanently altered by their son’s death. They argued that earlier action by the city could have prevented the tragedy if a ban had already been in place.
The family said they hope no other parents have to face a similar loss. Their remarks added a personal element to a political and public-safety debate that has been unresolved for years.
Who is backing the carriage ban proposal?
The current measure was introduced by Councilmember Chris Marte and has picked up additional support inside the council. Speaker Julie Menin has also signaled backing, saying lawmakers have a chance to make a lasting change after the teen’s death.
Animal welfare advocates supported the family at the hearing, and actress Edie Falco also urged city leaders to act. Backers of the bill point to prior crashes, horse injuries and horse deaths as evidence that the industry should be ended.
What happens next for horse-drawn rides in the city?
The legislation is still under review, and no final decision has been announced. Former Councilmember Bob Holden, who once sponsored similar legislation, criticized previous council leadership for not moving sooner on the issue.
Opponents of a ban continue to argue that horse-drawn carriage rides are a safe and regulated part of the city’s tourist economy. For now, the proposal remains before lawmakers as pressure builds to decide whether the long-standing tradition should continue.
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