Bihar family stranded overnight in Karnataka forest after Google Maps misdirection
A Bihar family traveling to Goa became stranded overnight in a dense forest in Karnataka after Google Maps directed them onto an unsuitable shortcut route. After walking about four kilometers to regain mobile signal, they called emergency services and were rescued by police.
What happened
A family from Bihar traveling to Goa used Google Maps navigation near Belagavi (Belgaum) in Karnataka. Google Maps directed them onto a shortcut route that led into a dense forest near Khanapur.
Reported impact
The family became stranded in the forest at night. After wandering for some distance without mobile network access, they walked approximately four kilometers before regaining signal and calling emergency services. Karnataka Police located and rescued them from the forest.
Index analysis
Google Maps displayed a route through dense forest terrain that was unsuitable for vehicle travel. The navigation system did not provide adequate warning of the hazardous route or the absence of infrastructure in the area.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.