A group of tourists from Hyderabad found themselves in a perilous situation after their attempt to navigate through a water-swollen stream near Kuruppanthara in Kerala using Google Maps. The four-member group, including a woman, was en route to Alappuzha when they came across a road covered with water from the overflowing creek due to heavy rains. Unfamiliar with the area, the tourists walked straight into the water as they relied on Google Maps for guidance.
Fortunately, the tourists managed to escape unharmed with the help of a nearby police patrol and residents, although their vehicle was completely submerged under water. This incident is not an isolated one, as a similar incident occurred in Kerala last year resulting in the deaths of two young doctors who followed Google Maps instructions and fell into a river. In response to these incidents, the Kerala Police issued precautionary guidelines for using technology during the monsoon season.
Instances of technology-mediated accidents are not limited to Kerala, as evidenced by an SUV driver in Tamil Nadu who got stuck on a flight of stairs in Gudalur while using Google Maps to find the fastest route. Similarly, in 2017, a man in North Carolina lost his life after driving his car off a collapsed bridge while following Google Maps. His family filed a lawsuit against the tech giant for negligence, alleging that he had not been adequately warned of the bridge’s collapse.
Overall, these incidents serve as a reminder of the potential risks associated with blindly following technology-driven navigation systems, especially in unfamiliar or hazardous terrains. Users are urged to exercise caution and supplement technology with common sense and local knowledge, particularly during adverse weather conditions like the monsoon season.
In conclusion, the incident involving the Hyderabad-based tourists highlights the importance of situational awareness and responsible use of technology while navigating unfamiliar terrains. While technology can be a helpful tool in travel and exploration, it is essential to prioritize safety and sound judgment to avoid potential dangers and accidents.
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