No funds for Eid cattle markets

Officers of the metropolitan corporation are grappling with challenges posed by financial constraints in setting up temporary markets of sacrificial animals for Eidul Azha in the metropolis by the June 18 deadline.

The preparations come following the imposition of tax on sacrificial animals and orders from the local government department to run the facilities on a no profit, no loss basis.

Traditionally, residents of the metropolis were exempted from taxes on sacrificial animals and vehicles transporting them during the season to ensure affordable prices.

According to sources, the Lahore Metropolitan Corporation had sought about Rs1.25 billion from the provincial caretaker government for setting up 10 temporary cattle markets in the city, but the request has been ignored.

The designated locations for the markets are Lakho Dher, Kana Kacha, Raiwind Road, Barki Road, Saggian Bridge, Hazrat Usman Road, Manawan, NFC Society and Sunder Road. The sources told The Express Tribune that despite the lack of funds, officers of the metropolitan corporation were determined to proceed ahead with setting up the markets.

However, they are facing difficulties as the corporation is responsible for providing facilities such as food and drinks, toilets, lighting, tents, and road construction and repair.

The Punjab government has imposed a tax on the transportation of sacrificial animals, which is estimated to generate revenue of up to Rs180 million. However, the available resources are insufficient, with expenses estimated to exceed Rs450 million.

Punjab Local Government Secretary Dr Irshad Ahmed confirmed that 229 local governments across the province will set up 191 temporary cattle markets for the Eid on a no profit, no loss basis.

Dr Ahmed emphasised that there would be no compromise on the sanitation arrangements and the markets would be operational by June 18.

The temporary facilities will be in addition to the cattle markets operating regularly across the province. Under the tax structure set for the temporary markets, Rs500 will be levied on goats and other small animals, while Rs1,000 will be charged for cows and bulls.

Additionally, parking fees have been imposed of Rs2,500 on a 22-wheel truck, Rs1,000 on truck, Rs300 on mini-truck, Rs150 on pick-up vehicle, Rs50 on car and rickshaw and Rs20 on motorcycle.

Charges have also been imposed over cattle loading and unloading, as well as for the provision of facilities such as, power generators, lights, water, faucets and washrooms.

Lahore Metropolitan Corporation Chief Executive Officer Ali Abbas Bukhari has also initiated a series of meetings with relevant officers and contractors to address the challenges associated with the temporary cattle markets.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Rafia Haider highlighted efforts planned in coordination with the traffic police to facilitate the sale of sacrificial animals.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 12^th, 2023.