French cyclists who use Google Maps as a shortcut to get to Nepal end up trapped in Bareilly


Two French tourists, Brian Jacques Gilbert and Sebastian Francois Gabriel, faced an unexpected challenge during their cycling journey from India to Nepal when they took a wrong turn, leading them to a remote village in Uttar Pradesh late Thursday night. The two travelers, who had planned to make their way to Kathmandu, Nepal, via Tanakpur from Pilibhit, were relying on Google Maps for directions. However, the mapping service suggested an alternative route through Baheri in Bareilly, which caused the tourists to get lost and end up at the isolated Churaili Dam area, far from their intended path.

Around 11 PM, as the cyclists pedaled through a deserted road under the cover of darkness, they were spotted by locals who grew concerned about their presence. The villagers, unable to communicate with the foreigners due to the language barrier, decided to act cautiously. Fearing potential misunderstandings or risks, they took the two tourists to the nearby Churaili police outpost in Bareilly district. The decision to bring them to the police station ensured that the tourists would be safe from any possible harm or confusion, given that they were on an unfamiliar road at such a late hour.

After hearing about their predicament, the police took quick action to assist the travelers. They guided Gilbert and Gabriel to the village headman’s residence, where the tourists were provided with a place to rest for the night. The police officers, under the leadership of Senior Officer Anurag Arya, were quick to respond, showing compassion for the tourists’ situation. Arya personally visited the French cyclists to ensure their safety and understand the circumstances behind their misadventure. After speaking with them, he instructed the police officers to provide the cyclists with the proper directions to continue their journey without further difficulties.

The next morning, the police made sure that Gilbert and Gabriel were given the correct and detailed directions for their trip. They were provided with an appropriate route, allowing them to resume their journey toward Nepal, where they had planned to reach next. The police not only helped them with directions but also ensured they were on their way without the risk of getting lost again.

Gilbert and Gabriel had arrived in India on January 7, flying into Delhi from Paris. They had begun their cycling adventure across India, experiencing the country's diverse landscapes and culture, before this unfortunate mishap occurred in Uttar Pradesh. Their situation, though initially alarming for both the tourists and locals, was resolved swiftly and amicably, showcasing the hospitality and concern of the local community and law enforcement.

While their journey had taken an unexpected turn, Gilbert and Gabriel were grateful for the assistance they received from the villagers and the police, allowing them to continue on their intended route. This incident highlights the importance of being cautious when relying on digital navigation tools, especially when traveling in unfamiliar areas, and the value of community support in such situations.


 

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