Cartagena Transitions from Horse Carriages to Electric Buggies

Cartagena, Colombia, known for its historic charm and iconic horse-drawn carriages, is set to ban these traditional vehicles in favor of electric buggies. This decision, effective December 29, follows years of protests from animal rights activists and reflects a growing concern for animal welfare. The city government aims to replace the horse-drawn buggies with a fleet of 62 electric carriages imported from China, which will be powered by solar energy and designed to mimic the appearance of traditional horse buggies.

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The horse-drawn carriages have long been a staple of Cartagena's tourism, offering visitors a nostalgic way to explore the city's colonial architecture. However, activists argue that the conditions under which the horses operate are detrimental to their health, citing instances of exhaustion and injury. Alejandro Riaño, a comedian and advocate for animal rights, has been instrumental in pushing for this transition, raising over $25,000 to develop a prototype electric vehicle that resembles the traditional buggies.

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• Alejandro Riaño: Comedian and animal rights advocate who has campaigned for the replacement of horse carriages.

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• Liliana Rodriguez: Director of Corpoturismo, the agency collaborating with the city government on the new electric fleet.

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• Domek Turbay: Mayor of Cartagena, who has accused horse cart owners of sabotaging negotiations regarding the transition.

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Mayor Domek Turbay has stated that the transition to electric buggies is necessary for the city's image as a global destination. He has also indicated that the city is willing to share profits from the new electric vehicles with former horse cart owners, although no formal agreements have been reached. Meanwhile, Miguel Angel Cortez, a horse cart owner, expressed concern over the lack of compensation for their loss of business, stating, "We are not against a transition... But we need to know how we will be included."

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The decision to ban horse-drawn carriages has met with resistance from traditionalists and cart owners. Cristian Munoz, a cart driver, lamented, "Without the horses, it's not the same," highlighting the emotional connection many have with the traditional mode of transport. Cart owners have threatened legal action against the city government, arguing that the proposed compensation of $10,000 is insufficient to cover their losses.

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As the city prepares for the rollout of the electric buggies, tourists will be able to ride them for free for the first two months. The success of this initiative will depend on public reception and whether the new vehicles can capture the essence of Cartagena's historical allure while addressing the concerns raised by animal rights activists.

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