💔🌆 Family Honors 18-Year-Old Romanch Mahajan In Central Park Memorial As Calls For Change Continue

New York City — Family members, community leaders, and supporters gathered in Central Park to remember 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan, whose life was tragically lost during a horse carriage incident in June.

The memorial took place near Cherry Hill, close to the location where Romanch suffered fatal injuries during a family sightseeing trip. Attendees observed a moment of silence and honored the young visitor from India, whose family says his life was taken far too soon.

Romanch had been visiting New York City with his parents and younger brother when the family stopped in Central Park. According to officials, the family was near the Cherry Hill area when an incident involving a horse-drawn carriage occurred.

During the event, Romanch’s family called for immediate action regarding horse carriage operations in Central Park, arguing that safety concerns must be addressed to prevent future tragedies.

His relatives expressed frustration after learning that carriage operations were expected to resume while they were still preparing to say goodbye to Romanch. They said the timing added further pain during an already devastating period.

Community leaders joined the family in remembering Romanch and discussing possible changes to the city’s carriage industry. Council Member Christopher Marte shared a statement from Romanch’s uncle, Guarav Mahajan, urging city officials to consider ending horse-drawn carriage operations.

The family emphasized that their goal is not only to honor Romanch’s memory but also to prevent another family from experiencing a similar loss.

The Transport Workers Union, which represents carriage owners and drivers, said operations had been paused following the tragedy and that additional safety measures and training would be implemented before returning.

New York City officials have acknowledged the family’s concerns. Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s office expressed sympathy for the family and stated that the mayor has previously supported ending horse carriage operations in city parks. However, officials said a permanent change would require action through legislation.

A proposal to phase out the carriage industry is already being considered by the City Council. Council Member Marte announced that the legislation would be renamed “Romanch’s Law” in memory of the teenager.

The upcoming discussions are expected to include voices from many sides of the debate, including safety advocates, animal welfare groups, carriage operators, and members of the public.

For Romanch’s family, the issue remains deeply personal. They say their son was more than a tragic story — he was a beloved family member whose future was filled with possibilities.

As Central Park remembers his name, his loved ones hope his legacy will be one of awareness, safety, and meaningful change.

🕊️ Remembering Romanch Mahajan — a young life honored through love and the hope for a safer future.