Kerala Police has issued guidelines to be cautious about the use of related technology during monsoon after the death of two young doctors when their car fell into a river allegedly while following directions on Google Maps. Advaith (29) and Ajmal (29), who worked at a private hospital in Thrissur district, died when their car fell into the Periyar river at Gothuruth, allegedly while following directions on Google Maps. According to the police, three other people traveling along with the concerned doctors were injured and are admitted to the hospital. Police have said that the driver had apparently reached the area following the directions given by Google Maps. It said visibility was very low at that time due to heavy rain. They were following the route shown by Google Map. But it seems that the map instructed them to turn left, but by mistake they went ahead and fell into the river.
Four wheeler cannot take the path of bike
The state police, in a Facebook post, asked people to avoid traveling through unfamiliar routes during the monsoon season. Releasing a list of ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’ while using Google Maps, Kerala Police said that routes are often changed during monsoon, but this information may not be visible on the map. The post said, Google Map is very helpful for driving these days. However, going on unfamiliar routes just by looking at the map, especially during monsoon, is sometimes dangerous. State police said maps may show routes with less traffic, but such routes may not be safe. Police also urged people to keep maps with them for reference in case they lose their GPS signal while travelling. Don’t forget to choose the appropriate mode of travel on the map, police said in a Facebook post. Choose from four-wheeler, two-wheeler, bicycle, foot and train options. Please note that four-wheelers cannot follow the path of a bike.
Help of diving team was taken to recover the body
Meanwhile, hospital sources said that the doctors who lost their lives in the accident were good friends and were planning to go abroad for higher education. Sources said the group was returning from Kochi after celebrating Advaita’s birthday. A person resident of Malappuram was in the concerned area in connection with construction work. He saw the accident happening at midnight. He and his friends and other local residents of the area then took part in rescue efforts. He also informed the fire department and police. A local resident told the media that they rescued three passengers including a woman. The help of a diving team was taken to recover the bodies of the doctors.