105-metre-tall Attari flag damaged by strong wind

Chandigarh: The much talked about 105-metre-tall Indian flag, which was hoisted at Indo-Pak border on March 5 amongst much fanfare, is not being hoisted anymore as the tall flag is being damaged by high velocity winds.

The 100-kilogram flag was hoisted on a 105-metre high flagpole at the Attari border. But since its inauguration on March 5, the flag — 36 metres in length and 24 metres wide — was damaged five times. One such flag itself costs Rs 1.25 lakh.

Amritsar deputy commissioner Kamaldeep Singh Sangha said the flag is not being hoisted anymore, but as it’s a matter of national pride, the government needs to take a call in the matter.

“I have written to the additional chief secretary (ACS), ACS (local bodies) and director general of police to take a call in the matter.

As the flag is repeatedly being damaged due to its height and material, it needs to be ascertained by a committee of experts if this project is feasible or not,” he said.

Mr Sangha said as large number of tourists, domestic and foreign, visit Attari border, and the frequent damage to the flag it a serious issue as it’s related to national prestige.

Built at an approximate cost of Rs 3.50 crore, the post was a project of Punjab government’s Amritsar Improvement Trust (AIT) Authority. Now, the AIT has suggested use of a smaller flag.

“An committee of experts needs to examine this issue and give its opinion on the feasibility of this project,” Mr Sangha said.