Tricolour Takes Flight: Srinagar Airport’s Giant Flag Stirs Patriotism and Pride

A towering symbol of unity and resilience now greets every visitor at Srinagar’s Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport. The massive national flag, measuring 36 by 24 feet and hoisted on a 105-foot pole, has become a beacon of pride and identity in Jammu and Kashmir. Installed in 2014, the flag continues to inspire awe and patriotism, especially during national celebrations and high-profile visits.

Key highlights of the installation:
- The flag was strategically placed to ensure visibility from the airport’s main approach road, making it one of the first sights for arriving passengers
- It was part of a broader initiative to boost patriotic sentiment and reinforce national presence in a region historically marked by conflict
- The flag is maintained by the Airports Authority of India, with regular inspections to ensure its condition and prominence

Symbolic and civic significance:
- The installation coincided with efforts to modernize the airport and enhance its role as a gateway to Kashmir’s tourism and trade
- It serves as a visual reminder of India’s sovereignty and the sacrifices made to uphold it, especially in a region with strategic military importance
- The flag has become a popular backdrop for photographs, social media posts, and ceremonial events, including Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations

Public response:
- Locals and tourists alike have embraced the flag as a unifying symbol
- Its presence has added emotional depth to the airport experience, blending infrastructure with national identity

Sources: The Hans India, Airports Authority of India, Wikipedia Srinagar Airport