New York edges closer to ending iconic Central Park carriage after 165 years

New York City is moving closer to ending horse-drawn carriage rides in Central Park, with the City Council preparing to approve legislation that would ban the practice from 2028, potentially bringing to a close a tradition that has lasted 165 years.

If adopted, the measure, known as Romanch’s Law, would phase out one of the city’s most recognisable tourist attractions, featured in films such as Barefoot in the Park and numerous television series.

The proposal follows years of political and legal disputes between city administrations, the carriage industry and animal welfare campaigners, who have long argued that horses should no longer be used on New York’s busy streets.

Former Mayor Bill de Blasio sought to ban the carriages in 2016 but ultimately accepted a compromise. The agreement reduced the number of licensed carriage horses from about 180 to around 100 and called for stables to be relocated closer to Central Park to avoid horses travelling through city traffic from their previous Midtown location.

The debate has intensified in recent weeks following the death of a young Indian tourist during a carriage ride in New York. The incident prompted a temporary suspension of carriage operations in Central Park and renewed scrutiny of the industry. According to the report, at least eight horse-related incidents have been recorded in or near Central Park since May 2025.

During a lengthy City Council hearing, the parents of the deceased tourist addressed lawmakers by video link from India.

“Every night is a nightmare for us,” the boy’s father, Deepak Mahajan, said. “We close our eyes and relive that carriage ride, the screams and the moment our son lost his life.”

Supporters of the carriage industry also testified, arguing that the horse-drawn carriages remain an important part of New York’s identity despite years of controversy.

While many residents and visitors regard the carriages as a historic attraction that adds to Central Park’s character, critics argue they no longer serve the practical purpose they once did and conflict with growing public awareness of animal welfare, particularly among younger generations.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani has expressed support for the proposed ban and said he is prepared to work on a transition plan that protects workers while ensuring the welfare of the horses.

The legislation has yet to be approved, but the proposal represents the strongest effort in years to end one of New York City’s oldest traditions.