Daijiworld Media Network - Canacona
Canacona, Jun 8: A reliance on Google Maps ended on a misadventure for a Telangana-registered car on Saturday evening, after its driver drove over the steps of the St. Theresa of Jesus Church compound in Chaudi, Canacona.
Sources said the incident occurred when the motorist, seeking to access the main road, ended up navigating the car onto the church steps. The St. Theresa of Jesus Church, situated adjacent to National Highway 66 (NH66) at Chaudi, has a legitimate driveway connecting to the highway—but it’s accessible only from the right side of the church.
“I just followed the directions on Google Maps to reach the main road,” the driver explained to surprised onlookers.
According to locals, the car was initially parked at the old bus stand in Chaudi. From there, the motorist attempted to navigate using Google Maps, which led him to a narrow road behind the municipal garden running parallel to NH66. He mistakenly entered the church compound and proceeded towards the steps in an attempt to rejoin the main highway.
The car got stuck on the steps, leaving the driver stranded. Alert locals quickly gathered at the spot and helped push the vehicle back into the church compound. They then guided the driver to the correct route, enabling him to proceed safely towards Margao.
The incident highlights the potential hazards of blindly trusting GPS navigation without being mindful of local landmarks and road layouts.