Another GPS Disaster: Car Plunges into Canal in UP, Second Incident in 10 Days

Bareilly (The Uttam Hindu): In a narrow escape, three passengers survived a harrowing incident when the car they were travelling in plunged into a canal while following Google Maps directions on a washed-out stretch of road in Uttar Pradesh. The mishap took place on the Bareilly-Pilibhit state highway, near the intersection of Barkapur village. The vehicle, a sedan, was carrying three individuals, including Divyanshu Singh from Auraiya. As the car navigated a section of the road that had eroded due to heavy rains, it overturned and fell into the Kalapur canal.

Fortunately, all three occupants managed to escape without any injuries. Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, and a crane was used to recover the vehicle from the canal. A police officer confirmed that the response team reached the spot within minutes of the accident, and no serious injuries were reported. The passengers were en route to Pilibhit when the incident occurred, following the navigation provided by Google Maps.

This incident follows a similar tragedy that occurred in Bareilly on November 24, when three people died after their car, also guided by Google Maps, plunged off an incomplete flyover into the Ramganga River. The recurring incidents highlight the dangers posed by relying solely on GPS navigation, particularly when roads are damaged or incomplete. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution and remain vigilant while navigating unfamiliar routes.