NYC Urged To Ban Horse-Drawn Carriages After Teen's Death

An emotional appeal was made to New York City lawmakers on Wednesday by the grieving family of 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan, who lost his life in a tragic horse-drawn carriage accident in Central Park. The incident occurred on June 17, 2026, when a horse reportedly bolted, throwing passengers from the carriage. Romanch, who was on his first trip to New York with his family, attempted to save his mother but died in the accident.

The family's appeal was made during a City Council hearing to discuss the proposed 'Romanch's Law,' which aims to phase out the city's historic horse carriage industry. The teenager's aunt and uncle testified in person, while his parents joined virtually from India. Romanch's aunt broke down in tears as she urged lawmakers to ensure no other family suffers a similar tragedy.

The proposed legislation seeks to end the renewal of the current two-year carriage licenses, effectively bringing an end to an industry that has operated in New York City for over 150 years. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to improve public safety, citing eight serious carriage-related incidents over the past two years, including Romanch's fatal accident.

Romanch's aunt described the devastating impact of the loss on the family, saying that his mother is shattered and numb after losing her 18-year-old son. The family's emotional appeal has gone viral, with many calling for an end to the horse-drawn carriage industry.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has expressed support for the intent of the legislation but has also raised concerns about the livelihoods of workers employed in the horse-drawn carriage industry. The proposed law has sparked a debate about the need to balance public safety with the economic impact on workers in the industry.

The horse-drawn carriage industry has been a part of New York City's landscape for over 150 years, with many considering it a iconic symbol of the city. However, the recent incidents have raised concerns about the safety and welfare of both humans and animals involved in the industry.

As the city considers the proposed legislation, many are calling for a ban on horse-drawn carriages in Central Park. The family's emotional appeal has brought attention to the issue, with many hoping that it will lead to a change in the law and prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The incident has also raised questions about the regulation of the horse-drawn carriage industry and the need for stricter safety measures. The city's lawmakers will now consider the proposed legislation and weigh the pros and cons of phasing out the industry.

In the meantime, the family of Romanch Mahajan continues to mourn the loss of their loved one, hoping that his death will not be in vain and that it will lead to a change in the law that will prevent similar tragedies in the future. The city's decision on the proposed legislation will have a significant impact on the horse-drawn carriage industry and the families of those involved in it.

The tragic incident has also sparked a wider debate about public safety and the need for cities to prioritize the welfare of both humans and animals. As cities around the world consider the use of horse-drawn carriages, the incident in New York City serves as a reminder of the need for strict safety measures and regulations to prevent similar tragedies.

In conclusion, the family of Romanch Mahajan's emotional appeal to lawmakers has brought attention to the issue of horse-drawn carriages in Central Park and the need for stricter safety measures. The proposed legislation has sparked a debate about the need to balance public safety with the economic impact on workers in the industry. As the city considers the proposed law, many are hoping that it will lead to a change in the law and prevent similar tragedies in the future.