Google Maps misguides truck driver, causes three-day stranding in Odisha

Bhubaneswar, Dec 9: A truck transporting rice from Visakhapatnam to Raipur narrowly avoided a serious mishap after it became stranded while following directions from Google Maps. The incident occurred at Gajalbadi Ghat in Kandhamal district, where the vehicle has been stuck for three days.

Reports indicate that the driver relied on the online navigation tool to find a shortcut. Unfortunately, the map directed him onto a narrow and unsuitable road in Gajalbadi Ghat, resulting in the truck getting lodged and causing significant disruption for other vehicles trying to use the route. The driver expressed frustration, stating, "The vehicle got damaged, and so far no administrative officials have come to my rescue."

This incident highlights the potential dangers of relying on GPS navigation without proper verification of the routes. A similar situation unfolded on November 23, when a car carrying three individuals plunged into a river from an under-construction bridge in Uttar Pradesh. The car was en route to Bareilly for a wedding when Google Maps led them onto an unsafe path.