Nonthaburi: A motorist’s unexpected detour has prompted the Department of Highways to take action after Google Maps directed him onto route M81, leading towards Kanchanaburi instead of his intended destination, a shopping mall in Nonthaburi Province.

According to Thai News Agency, travel influencer Khun Chiang shared his distressing experience on social media, highlighting a significant flaw in digital navigation. Chiang recounted how Google Maps advised a right turn, inadvertently directing him onto the M81 with no immediate exits. The only available exit was in Nakhon Pathom, far from his destination. Chiang’s experience mirrors that of other drivers, who have found themselves similarly misdirected.

The incident, which occurred on October 4th, sparked widespread attention when Central Westgate, the intended destination, humorously captioned a photo, “The epic, worst wrong turn in humanity,” referring to Chiang’s unintended journey to Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom Province. The mishap, which forced Chiang to continue driving for over an hour, underscores the potential pitfalls of relying solely on digital maps without considering physical road signs.

In response, the Department of Highways announced immediate measures to rectify the situation. They are working to improve traffic signs and symbols to better distinguish routes, especially on the M81 motorway. This includes installing clearer directional and warning signs at key junctions and coordinating with navigation app providers to update and verify route information, toll gate details, and other critical data to prevent future navigation errors.

The department emphasized the importance of drivers using both digital and physical navigation aids to make informed decisions and ensure a smoother and safer travel experience.