Ace investor and co-founder of Hungama Digital, Ashish Kacholia, experienced a frustrating travel ordeal in Bengaluru. On Thursday, he missed his flight from Bengaluru to Mumbai after Google Maps failed to accurately predict the travel time to the airport. The incident sheds light on the persistent issue of traffic congestion in the city, a challenge that has been a source of frustration for many commuters.
Kacholia, who had to travel over 50 kilometers from HSR Layout to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), relied on Google Maps for guidance. The app estimated a travel time of 1 hour and 45 minutes. However, the reality proved far different, with the journey taking twice as long due to Bengaluru’s unpredictable traffic and weather conditions. The travel time stretched to 3 hours, compounded by rainfall that began during the trip.
Taking to social media, Kacholia expressed his frustration, tweeting, “Yesterday missed my flight from Bengaluru to Mumbai because journey took 3 hours instead of 1.45 as shown by Google Maps.”
He further added a veiled critique of Bengaluru’s infrastructure by thanking the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for their efforts in maintaining traffic flow in Mumbai, highlighting the difference in infrastructure management between the two cities.
The incident sparked online discussions, with one user humorously suggesting that Bengaluru cab drivers should offer washroom breaks during long journeys, referencing the practice common in overnight buses. Another user questioned whether Kacholia was mocking Google Maps or the city of Bengaluru itself.
Ashish Kacholia, who is often referred to as the ‘Big Whale’ in financial circles, is a seasoned investor with a long and successful career. He began his journey in the 1990s, gaining valuable experience at firms like Prime Securities and Edelweiss before establishing Lucky Securities in 1995. His astute investment decisions have earned him a reputation for sharp financial acumen.
Kacholia also co-founded Hungama Digital alongside the late Indian billionaire investor, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala. His recent experience with Bengaluru’s traffic highlights the ongoing challenges that the city faces in improving its infrastructure and providing a smoother commute for its residents and visitors.
