Five students from a private college in Cuttack, Odisha, endured an 11-hour ordeal in the dense Saptasajya forest after Google Maps led them astray while returning from a hilltop temple. The harrowing incident unfolded when the navigation app directed them deeper into unfamiliar terrain, leaving them disoriented and without a clear path back.
According to reports, the group became lost by 2 pm, relying solely on Google Maps, which inadvertently compounded their predicament. Their journey led them to Bhuashuni Khola, an area off-limits to visitors, further intensifying their distress. Exhausted and without provisions, they managed to alert authorities after a prolonged struggle to find their way out.
A coordinated effort by Dhenkanal police and the forest department ensued, deploying teams from multiple directions to locate and rescue the stranded students. The operation culminated successfully, ensuring the safe return of the group from their unintended adventure.
This incident adds to a series of mishaps attributed to Google Maps, including recent incidents in Kerala where misdirection led to potentially life-threatening situations. Such occurrences underscore the importance of vigilance and local knowledge, particularly in navigating unfamiliar terrains guided by digital mapping technologies.
Related topics:
Runway Launches Gen-3: Revolutionizing Video Creation for All Users
Transforming Advanced AI Training through NVIDIA Initiative
Google Announces Closure of Podcast Service and Stack PDF Scanner