A recently discovered translation error on a highway near Karnataka’s Kodagu has become the latest internet sensation. The signboard, originally intended to caution drivers about over speeding, instead read in English as “Urgent make an accident,” sparking widespread confusion and amusement among passersby.
Located near Sampaje on the Madikeri to Mangaluru National Highway 275, the signboard’s mistranslation from Kannada, “Avasarave Apaghatakke Karana,” has attracted attention for its unintended and humorous message. While the intended warning was straightforward—highlighting the risks associated with speeding—the erroneous translation has garnered mixed reactions. Some have criticized the quality of translation, pointing out the potential dangers of such errors on public signage. Others, however, found humor in the mistake, sharing the image across social media platforms.
The incident was first brought to light by a handle named ‘Kodagu Connects,’ which shared the image online, quickly gaining traction and going viral. Despite its viral status, the authenticity of the image has not been independently verified by news sources.
Translation errors on public signboards are not uncommon and often lead to unintended consequences. In this case, the humorous twist in the translation has provided a moment of light-hearted entertainment amidst concerns over road safety. Such incidents serve as reminders of the importance of accurate translations, especially in critical communication meant to ensure public safety on highways and roads.
As the story continues to circulate online, it underscores the power of social media in amplifying quirky incidents that capture the public’s imagination.