ISLAMABAD: Seized with patriotic fervour, the federal government has ordered the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to install a 541-square-foot flag on a 200-foot pole in the federal capital.

The desire to have a giant flag at a central point in the city was conveyed to the CDA chairman in a recent meeting by the prime minister himself.

“The idea to have a massive flag erected in the city is possibly inspired by New Delhi’s monumental flagpole, measuring 207 feet, which the prime minister saw on his recent visit to India,” said an official of the CDA.

The CDA has earmarked three sites for the landmark; F-9 Park, Daman-i-Koh and the National Monument at Zero Point.

However, technical experts from the civic body are perplexed as no one seems to have any experience or expertise to guide the development and installation of a 200-foot flagpole.

“The pole not only has to be attractive, but also strong enough to withstand wind pressure, especially if installed at Daman-i-Koh or the National Monument,” said an official of the planning wing.

Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2014