In a tragic incident that transpired during the early hours of Sunday, two doctors lost their lives, and three others sustained injuries when the vehicle they were traveling in veered off the road and plunged into the Periyar River in Kochi, Kerala, as reported by the local police.
The unfortunate accident occurred around 12.30 AM, claiming the lives of Advaith, aged 29, and Ajmal, also 29. Both of them were employed at a private hospital within the district. Their journey was intended to take them back to Kodungallur, and it was reported that they were relying on Google Maps for navigation.
In an unforeseen turn of events, they apparently misunderstood the river's presence and mistook it for a waterlogged road. Consequently, they continued driving, and the vehicle gradually submerged in the river. Tragically, Advaith and Ajmal were unable to extricate themselves, whereas the other three passengers managed to escape, albeit with injuries.
Prompt response from local residents led to a rescue effort, with immediate notification of the fire service personnel and police authorities. Additionally, a scuba diving team was dispatched to the scene to retrieve the bodies.
Locals and fire service officials successfully rescued three individuals from the submerged vehicle, and they were subsequently discharged from the hospital after receiving necessary medical attention.
The police, commenting on the incident, noted that the visibility was severely impaired due to heavy rainfall at the time. The ill-fated travelers had been relying on directions provided by Google Maps. However, it appears that instead of following the recommended left turn, they inadvertently proceeded straight ahead, culminating in the tragic accident.
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