Sat Jan 25 07:11:00 IST 2025: ## Lost in India: Google Maps Leads French Cyclists Astray
**Bareilly, India** – Two French tourists undertaking a cycling trip from Delhi to Kathmandu found themselves unexpectedly detoured, thanks to a faulty Google Maps route. Brian Jacques Gilbert and Sebastian Francois Gabriel, who arrived in Delhi on January 7th, were aiming for Tanakpur, en route to Nepal. However, a late-night shortcut suggested by the app led them astray near Churaili Dam in Bareilly district, Uttar Pradesh.
Villagers discovered the pair cycling alone at 11 pm on Thursday and, unable to communicate, escorted them to the Churaili police outpost. Police housed the cyclists overnight at the village head’s home before providing them with directions and sending them on their way Friday morning. Bareilly’s Circle Officer Arun Kumar Singh confirmed the incident, attributing the mishap to Google Maps misdirecting the cyclists in the dark. Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya personally ensured the tourists received the necessary assistance. The timely intervention of villagers and police prevented any potential issues and allowed the adventure to continue, albeit with a significant unplanned detour.
First Piper 