Google Maps Misguides French Cyclists Traveling to Nepal, Takes Them to Bareilly

Bareilly (The Uttam Hindu): Google Maps has revolutionized navigation, guiding millions around the world, but occasional errors or misinterpretations can still leave travelers off course, particularly in remote areas. Such was the case for two French tourists cycling from Delhi to Kathmandu, who found themselves far from their planned route. The tourists ended up near Churaili Dam, police reported on Friday.

The incident unfolded when villagers spotted the two cyclists, Brian Jacques Gilbert and Sebastian Francois Gabriel, cycling at night. Concerned for their safety, the locals escorted them to the Churaili police outpost. The police arranged for the tourists to stay overnight at the village Pradhan's house and provided them with clear route instructions the following morning.

Baheri Circle Officer Arun Kumar Singh explained that the French nationals had arrived in Delhi on January 7 to begin their journey to Kathmandu via Tanakpur and Pilibhit. However, relying on Google Maps led them astray. "The app suggested a shortcut through Baheri in Bareilly, which caused them to get lost and end up at Churaili Dam," Singh said. He added that the language barrier made it difficult for the villagers to communicate with the cyclists, so they brought them to the police outpost to ensure their safety.

Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya later spoke with the French tourists and directed officers to assist them in resuming their journey toward their destination.