Eid preparations: High cattle prices keep buyers at bay

Seven markets have been set up in Potohar Town

ISLAMABAD: The cost of sacrificial animals has risen sharply with approaching Eidul Azha, which has led citizens to refrain from purchase.

Moreover, the prices have almost doubled. There are  relatively fewer animals brought into the city from various parts of the country, particularly from remote areas.

The prices remain high, as vendors say that the cost of feeding and taking care of the animals has also seen an increase.

Asif, a shopkeeper, said that he would regularly sacrifice a goat on the event of Eid; however, due to the increased cost it was not possible for him this year.

“Buying a sacrificial animal is a dream now,” said another government employee.

He further added that the trend of joint sacrifice was on the rise owing to the high prices.

Meanwhile, the Rawalpindi district government has set up seven animal markets in Potohar Town to cater to the demand during this period.

Furthermore, to guarantee smooth flow of traffic as well as to keep the city clean, the markets have been set up outside the city.

Residents of the twin cities have been embellishing their sacrificial animals with ornaments, such as colourful garlands of beads, crowns and bells.

The prices being charged for these items have also seen a hike.

Saqib, a vendor, said that he had been involved in the business for the past 10 years.

“Overall, it is a slow business but a few days before Eid it booms,” he said.

Saqib added that the wide array of garlands was procured from a variety of regions for sale.

He said that those ornaments enhance the beauty of the animals and catch the eye of the buyers.

Noor Muhammad, another seller, said that the animals did not look attractive without the decorative items.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 5^th, 2016.