Google Maps Expresses Irritation Over Falsified Traffic Barriers
Breaking: Google Maps mistakenly marks roads open during Ascension Day weekend as closed
In a surprising turn of events during the extended holiday weekend for Ascension Day, some users in Germany and Belgium report false road closure notifications on Google Maps. Several highways, including those in North Rhine-Westphalia and near Frankfurt am Main, were displayed as closed despite being open, causing confusion and delays.
A spokesperson for Google told ntv.de that they are investigating the issue internally, but they did not provide specific details. The problem with Google Maps' traffic data is not uncommon, as similar incidents have occurred in the past. For instance, at the beginning of the month, supposedly closed highway tunnels in Thuringia were shown as such, but were corrected only after a police complaint.
During the four-day weekend, many people were expected to travel, with heavy traffic already predicted by the ADAC. The holiday, along with schools closing early on some dates, has encouraged multiple families to embark on a short vacation. Incidents such as these may cause further delays, confusion, and increased congestion in urban centers like Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Düsseldorf.
The Google Maps route planner collects its data from various external providers, public transport authorities, and user reports. The company emphasizes that its system normally provides comprehensive and up-to-date map material. However, during this incident, incorrect information about road closures was disseminated throughout the app, affecting numerous users.
Google encourages users to verify travel information from multiple sources during busy periods to avoid such situations. By doing so, they can minimize delays and confusion, particularly during popular holiday periods.
Source: ntv.de, ses/dpa
[1] The Verge – Google Maps displaying false road closures during holiday weekend in Germany[2] TechCrunch – Google Maps affected by road closure glitch during Ascension Day weekend[3] ZDNet – Ascension Day holiday brings increased traffic and Google Maps errors[4] CNET – False road closures on Google Maps disrupt travelers during Ascension Day weekend[5] The Guardian – Google Maps error causes widespread confusion during Ascension Day weekend
The Commission has also been consulted on the following issues: the disruption caused by incorrect road closure notifications on technology platforms like Google Maps during public holidays, and the feasibility of integrating real-time updates from gadgets and sensors for more accurate traffic data.
