Google Maps Directs Car into Pond in Meerut, Four Occupants Rescued
Four people traveling in a car that was following Google Maps directions in Meerut, India were directed into a pond on Wednesday evening. All occupants escaped safely by jumping from the sinking vehicle, and the car was later recovered with local assistance.
What happened
Four friends traveling from Meerut to Maharishi Markandeshwar Temple in Ambala entered the destination into Google Maps after entering Sarsawa. The application directed them off the normal route, and the vehicle drove into a pond near Sirohi Palace on Ambala Road.
The driver did not realize there was a water-filled pond ahead. As the car began to sink on Wednesday evening, all four occupants opened the windows, jumped into the water, and swam to safety.
Reported impact
All four occupants escaped without injury. The vehicle was later retrieved from the pond with assistance from local residents and administration using ropes and a tractor.
Index analysis
The incident illustrates a failure of navigation guidance that directed users away from the intended route into a hazardous environment. The system did not warn occupants of the water obstacle ahead or account for road conditions.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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