Although Google Maps is an excellent resource for navigating new routes, in some areas, local knowledge is more valuable. Recently, a group of visitors traversed a flooded stream while following Google Maps’ instructions.

Tourists in India were utilizing Google Maps to navigate through an unknown area as reported by the local newspaper CarToq . Kerala, a state on India’s southwest coast, was where the visitors were traveling. The group used a Toyota SUV to travel from Munnar to Alappuzha, but because they followed Google Maps’ instructions, they became caught in a stream.

The group was led directly through a stream by Google Maps when they arrived at the little settlement of Kuruppanthara Kadavu. However, the creek was flooded as a result of rain that had just passed through the region. Locals in the neighborhood tried to draw the driver’s attention to stop the accident as the group neared the creek with the intention of crossing it, but the driver preferred to follow Google Maps’ instructions. Due to this, the SUV immediately became trapped in the stream. Fortunately, everyone inside was able to escape, and the SUV was later removed from the stream with the aid of a truck. Since then, the community has put in chains to stop similar occurrences.

It only serves to demonstrate that, like any GPS, Google Maps does not always accurately reflect local conditions. CarToq highlighted two other instances from the previous year where Maps directed users over a bridge that is frequently flooded and impassable, and another incidence where a user had to find an alternate route because of a damaged bridge.

The machine doesnt always know best , but to Google’s credit, it puts in a lot of effort to perform as well as it can.

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