New York City Council Bans Horse Drawn Carriages After 160 Years

New York City Council has voted to ban horse-drawn carriages from city streets and Central Park from June 2028, ending a tourist tradition that has existed for more than 160 years.

The bill was approved by 40 of the city's 51 council members and was backed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who said the industry would come to an end. Seven council members voted against the proposal, while two abstained.

The move follows years of debate over animal welfare and public safety concerns, with renewed support for the ban after the death of 18-year-old Indian tourist Romanch Mahajan in June.

Mahajan died after falling from a carriage when the horse bolted while the driver had stepped away to take a family photograph. The planned legislation has been named Romanch's Law in his memory.

Supporters of the ban argue that the carriages put both horses and people at risk. According to the Manhattan Borough President's office, 40 horses working in Central Park have died since 1982, with causes including overheating and collisions.

However, carriage drivers have opposed the decision, saying they care deeply for their horses and that the animals are treated well. Many workers have also raised concerns about losing their livelihoods, with around 200 drivers currently working in the industry.

The legislation includes plans for a transition programme, including possible job placement, training and financial support for workers. It also prevents horses from being sold for slaughter.

In Malta, a measure was introduced to protect horses of horse-drawn carriages whenever Red Alert Extreme Heat Warnings are issued by the MET Office.

However, calls for more restrictions have circulated over the years, with some activists calling for further bans of the practice. What do you think?

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