Hospet’s pride, the country’s second tallest flagpole located at the district stadium, continues to remain damaged even after a year, raising serious concerns over civic responsibility and administrative delays. The 405-foot-tall national flagpole, once a symbol of patriotism and grandeur, today stands as a reminder of neglect.
The damage occurred last year too during Republic Day celebrations, when the massive national flag was being hoisted. During the process, a major portion of the pole broke, causing the flag to fall from nearly 60 percent of its height. The incident shocked citizens and officials alike, especially considering the importance of the occasion and the stature of the monument.
Although the Public Works Department had constructed the flagpole, its maintenance currently falls under the responsibility of the Municipal Corporation. Since the incident, however, no concrete steps have been taken to restore the structure. According to official estimates, the repair work would cost more than ₹37 lakh, which appears to be one of the major reasons for the prolonged delay.
MLA H.R. Gaviyappa has acknowledged the issue and stated that funds should be allocated for immediate repair. He has assured that the matter will be discussed with the District Collector and expressed confidence that a suitable grant will be sanctioned. Despite this assurance, progress on the ground remains minimal.
Sources within the Municipal Corporation have expressed doubts about the repair work being taken up anytime soon. They indicate that financial constraints and administrative procedures are slowing down the process, leaving the project in uncertainty.
This is not the first time such negligence has been witnessed. Similar delays were reported last year as well, reflecting a recurring pattern of inaction. For a monument that represents national pride, such prolonged neglect sends the wrong message to the public, especially to the younger generation.
Citizens and social activists have begun voicing their disappointment, questioning why a structure of such importance has been left unattended for so long. Many feel that maintaining the national flag and its infrastructure should be treated as a priority rather than a financial burden.
As another year passes since the incident, the damaged flagpole continues to await restoration. The people of Hospet now hope that the authorities will move beyond promises and take swift action to restore this symbol of unity and patriotism to its former glory.