Report GPS Mishap: Electric Car Plunges into Nakhon Sawan Canal

[snoop1130]

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

An unexpected hazard led to a dramatic incident in Nakhon Sawan, when a man relying on GPS ended up with his electric car submerged in an irrigation canal.

 

The incident occurred on the evening of 18 August as the driver attempted to navigate to the Im Jai Café. Unfamiliar with the local terrain, he followed his GPS along a road notorious for its uneven surface. This less travelled route, connecting several villages, is lower than typical roads, posing risks to unsuspecting drivers, particularly those moving at high speeds.

 

Somboat Khuam-im, a rescue official from the Phayuha Khiri district, explained that as the driver approached the undulating section, the vehicle veered off course and ended up in the Khao Kaeo irrigation canal. Thankfully, the driver managed to escape the car just moments before it was swept away. Remarkably, the vehicle floated approximately 50 metres downstream before sinking two metres below the water's surface.

 

A video captured the vehicle continuing to float along the canal for over 200 metres, eventually becoming lodged under a bridge. After drifting an additional 60 metres, the engine stalled, and the car sank.

 

Local police have advised drivers to take extra care on this route, stressing the importance of reduced speeds, particularly at night or in adverse weather conditions. The road's propensity for overflows during heavy rain makes it tricky for those not familiar with its challenges.

 

In a related incident, emergency services recently responded to a separate canal accident. On 19 May, at 1.30 pm, Police Sub-Lieutenant Chaiwat Tiammeka from Ban Phaeo Police Station in Samut Sakhon received reports of another car plunging into a canal. Local volunteers and police rushed to the scene, managing to rescue three occupants. Unfortunately, one of the individuals later died in hospital.

 

These incidents are a sobering reminder of the unpredictable dangers posed by both technology reliance and challenging road conditions. While modern navigation aids like GPS offer great convenience, they can lead to perilous outcomes if users are not cautious and fully aware of their surroundings.

 

Authorities continue to stress the importance of driving attentively and being prepared for sudden terrain changes, especially in less familiar areas. Meanwhile, Nakhon Sawan residents and travellers alike are urged to stay alert and prioritise safety on village roads.

 

As the landscape of travel continues to evolve, it is essential for both drivers and road planners to collaborate in ensuring that technology complements traditional driving skills, rather than inadvertently leading to hazardous situations.

 

In both emergencies, the quick-thinking response from local rescue teams and police underscores the vital role of community readiness in mitigating such incidents. With ongoing vigilance, it's hoped that such accidents can be reduced, if not entirely prevented.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-20

 

[novacova]

Playing with the infotainment system while driving is a hazard.

[Purdey]

Used Google maps to find the M81 Motorway. Ended up in farmland. 😒

As one orange person said, risk an electric shock or a shark in the canal.