In a heartbreaking incident, an Indian teenager died while trying to save his mother after falling from a horse-drawn carriage in New York’s Central Park. According to the latest updates, all horse carriage rides have been suspended at the iconic park, and city leaders are now considering a ban on this centuries-old attraction.
Indian Teen Tourist Dies After Falling Off Horse Carriage In New York
According to The Times of India, 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan fell from a horse-drawn carriage after the driver reportedly stepped away to take a photograph of the family. At that moment, the horse allegedly bolted, collided with another carriage, and overturned, causing the teenager to fall.
According to Romanch’s father, the 18-year-old was trying to save his mother after she fell from the carriage. In the process, he also fell and suffered a fatal head injury. He was rushed to New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center, where he was later declared dead. The other family members sustained minor injuries.
Also Read: “Why Do People Say That India Is Dirty?” New York Traveller Appreciates India’s Cleanliness
New York Leaders Mulling Ban On This Age-Old Attraction?
According to AP News, the death of 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan has reignited the debate over horse-drawn carriage rides in New York’s Central Park. Citing the labour union representing the industry and the Central Park Conservancy, the report noted that Romanch is believed to be the first person to die in a horse-carriage-related accident since the rides were introduced in the park more than 150 years ago.
The report further stated that the tragedy marked the eighth horse-related incident in Central Park over the past 13 months. Animal rights activists have long argued that carriage horses are overworked, easily startled by busy city traffic, and often housed in inadequate stables. They have also accused some carriage operators of violating city regulations.
Meanwhile, officials have raised concerns about whether horses can continue to safely share park roads with the growing number of joggers, cyclists, pedestrians, and motorised scooters. They have also pointed to other cities, including Chicago and San Antonio, which have phased out horse-drawn carriage rides in recent years.
In the wake of the incident, reports suggest that the New York Mayor and other city leaders are considering measures that could ultimately lead to a ban on horse carriage rides in the city.
Also Read: Wait, What? Gordon Ramsay Almost Ate A Band-Aid On MasterChef USA; Here’s What Happened
Let us know your thoughts on this in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/AnnSteer
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
FAQs
What happened to an Indian teenager in New York's Central Park?
Romanch Mahajan, an 18-year-old Indian teenager, died after falling from a horse-drawn carriage in Central Park. According to reports, he was attempting to save his mother after she fell from the carriage when the accident occurred.
Has New York suspended horse carriage rides in Central Park?
Following the incident, horse carriage rides were temporarily suspended as authorities reviewed safety measures and investigated the accident.
Is New York planning to ban horse-drawn carriage rides?
City leaders are reportedly considering restrictions or a potential ban on horse-drawn carriage rides amid renewed safety and animal welfare concerns.