Top Highlights
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Heritage vs. Animal Welfare: Cartagena’s iconic horse-drawn buggies will be banned to replace them with electric vehicles, sparking a divide between traditionalists and animal rights activists over heritage and animal welfare.
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City’s Decision: The Cartagena government, influenced by public protests and animal rights advocates, plans to outlaw horse carts by December 29, 2023, introducing a fleet of 62 electric carriages powered by solar energy.
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Economic Concerns: Horse cart owners feel sidelined and under-compensated for their businesses, with discussions about financial support but no concrete agreements, leading to threats of legal action.
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Future of Tourism: While some tourists appreciate the traditional horse-drawn experiences, the city aims to attract a new generation with electric vehicles, leaving uncertainty about visitor preferences for heritage over modernity.
The Shift from Tradition to Technology
Cartagena, a cherished gem on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, faces a pivotal change. The iconic horse-drawn carriages, once symbols of the city’s charm, will soon be replaced by electric buggies. The local government emphasizes animal welfare, citing concerns about the conditions horses endure on city streets. Activists highlight the stress and injuries horses face. Meanwhile, tradition bears weight in conversations around this shift. Locals, who have long relied on these carriages, feel the change threatens a piece of their heritage. Tourists appreciate the unique experience of riding through colonial streets powered by animals, cherishing the stories shared by drivers. Yet, as technology advances, the question remains: How do we balance tradition with progress?
Balancing Progress and Community Needs
The move to electric vehicles aims to blend modernity with nostalgia. These new carts, equipped with solar power and resembling traditional buggies, offer an environmentally friendly solution. This initiative could inspire cities globally, paving the way for sustainable tourism. However, not all stakeholders agree on this transition. Horse cart owners express frustration, fearing loss of livelihood without adequate compensation. They argue that the plans seem rushed and exclude their input. The municipality insists that negotiations continue, yet many are left uncertain about their future. As Cartagena steps into this new era, finding harmony between innovation and community well-being will be crucial. How the city navigates this transformation could set a precedent for others.
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