Shopkeepers at Ludhiana's upscale Gole Market have sounded an urgent alarm over a towering national flagpole they believe is dangerously close to collapsing. The 80-foot structure, a prominent feature in the local park, has developed severe structural cracks and is being undermined by a rat infestation, posing a significant threat to life and property.
Structural Decay and Inferior Materials Alleged
The crisis was formally highlighted on Friday when local activist and shopkeeper Arvind Sharma lodged an official complaint with district authorities. Sharma pointed out that the metal pipe at the base of the flagpole is "rotten" and cracked across more than half its diameter. He alleged that substandard materials were used in a project meant to be a symbol of pride, noting that approximately Rs 1.1 crore was spent on the park's redevelopment in 2017.
"It appears that cheap, inferior material was used for a project that was supposed to be a point of pride," Sharma stated. The safety fears are especially poignant as the country prepares to celebrate Republic Day on January 26. Business owners argue that the deteriorating state of the pole is not just a physical hazard but also a mark of disrespect to a national emblem.
Rat Infestation Compounds the Danger
The structural weaknesses are being aggressively worsened by a rampant rat problem in the market area. Traders report that rodents have started damaging the foundation of the pole, accelerating the spread of existing cracks in the metal. This combination of factors has created a ticking time bomb, particularly with the monsoon season and dust storms being a constant threat in the region.
"If this falls during a heavy storm, there will be a loss of life and money," warned one local trader. The shopkeepers, whose businesses cater to customers seeking premium brands, are united in their demand. They insist that authorities must not resort to temporary fixes but should replace the entire flagpole immediately.
Official Response and Lingering Skepticism
When contacted about the pressing safety risks, Vikram Bhardwaj, an Executive Engineer with the Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT), confirmed receiving the complaint. He acknowledged that the work was completed over two years ago and suggested that paint damage or minor cracks might have appeared.
"I have instructed the original contractor to inspect and repair it immediately," Bhardwaj said. However, his assurances have done little to alleviate the concerns of the market's stakeholders. Residents and business owners cite the park's consistently poor upkeep as a long-standing issue that has been routinely ignored by the authorities, fueling their skepticism about any swift or effective remedial action.
The situation in Gole Market underscores a broader problem of maintenance and accountability in public infrastructure, turning a symbol of national pride into a source of community anxiety.
