Tragic Accident in Central Park Spurs Safety Reforms

The Mahajan family’s trip to New York City tragically ended on its third day. Deepak Mahajan shared his grief about his son Romanch, who died after falling from a horse-drawn carriage in Central Park. The family was on a 10-day vacation to the U.S. to celebrate Romanch’s high school graduation and university acceptance in India.

Romanch and his family, including his mother Priya and younger brother Maanik, were taking a carriage ride when the horse suddenly bolted. Romanch fell out as he tried to help his mother, sustaining fatal injuries. He passed away in the hospital, while the rest of the family suffered minor injuries.

My son was very smart, obedient, and stood over 6 feet tall. This is a big loss for our family, said Mahajan about his son.

Romanch’s uncle, Guarav Mahajan, described him as a helpful and sincere teenager, aspiring to become an entrepreneur. The tragic event led to questions about safety protocols in NYC’s carriage rides.

The Transport Workers Union responded to the incident by halting carriage operations and reviewing safety procedures. They noted that the driver moved away from the horse to take a family photo, which is against the rules. The driver has been indefinitely suspended, and the horse, new to Central Park, was retired.

Our hearts go out to the Mahajan family, said Alexander Kemp of the Transport Workers Union.

Deepak Mahajan called for stronger safety measures to prevent such tragedies. The Consulate General of India in New York is assisting the Mahajan family.

This incident is reportedly the first human fatality involving Central Park’s horse carriages, which have existed for over 150 years. The tragedy renewed calls to ban them, with advocates citing public safety risks. The Central Park Conservancy and officials, such as NYC Council member Christopher Marte, also support a ban.

A young man lost his life enjoying the park, which is unacceptable, a Conservancy spokesperson stated.

There have been multiple horse-related incidents recently. Last week, a carriage horse died after ingesting a poisonous plant. The Central Park Conservancy supports Ryder’s Law, which proposes banning carriages and finding jobs for affected drivers.

The Transport Workers Union endorses a reform-oriented local bill promoting horse welfare and job protection. Suggested reforms include hitching posts across the park to secure horses when drivers step away.

As the city grapples with this tragedy, discussions continue on enhancing safety and reconsidering the future of carriage rides in Central Park.