Cattle market abuzz with activity

With just few days remaining until the joyous occasion of Eidul Azha, the main cattle market in the metropolitan city is abuzz with activity. However, traders and buyers are voicing their discontent over the surging inflation which is now defining buyers' preferences.

Nestled on Northern Bypass, the vibrant cattle market has become the centre of attraction for Karachiites. Spreading across a sprawling 700-acre area, the market showcases a magnificent array of cattle breeds adorned with vibrant electric lamps.

Over 550,000 animals have been brought to the market, with approximately 250,000 already finding their buyers. The market comprises 13 blocks, including two VIP sections housing high-end animals of superior breeds. Additionally, dedicated sections are designated for goats, bulls, camels, and sheep, each boasting unique colours such as orange, green, red, pink, white, and blue.

The market offers various facilities, including a water supply of 20 litres per animal for the traders, along with electricity and tent arrangements. Medical camps have also been set up to provide care for sick animals. Furthermore, a tax of Rs4,000 per animal is being levied. This year, buyers are preferring quality over weight. A diverse range of breeds, including Brahman, Sahiwal, Australian cows and bulls, Kamuri, Sindhi, Tapri, and Gulabi goats, as well as Raigstani, Cholistani, and Sibbi camels, have been sourced from different parts of the country. Enthusiastic citizens are flocking to the market to handpick their desired animals for the upcoming religious festival.

To ensure a safe environment for visitors, enhanced security measures have been put in place. Smart surveillance rooms have been installed at the Toll Plaza and other major roads, enabling efficient monitoring of individuals and vehicles passing through. More than 500 security personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order. Muttahir Chawla, spokesperson for the cattle market, has appreciated the police for their proactive approach in implementing these measures, instilling confidence among families visiting the market.

The market witnesses long queues of eager visitors and buyers, who willingly explore the vast premises on foot in search of their desired animals. As the Eid festivities draw nearer, citizens' excitement continues to soar. Some sellers have already showcased their purchased animals to attract potential customers.

However, traders express their concerns over the increased cost of fodder and soaring transportation prices, which have doubled to Rs100,000 and above for a truck. These factors have compelled them to sell their animals at higher prices. Consequently, the number of buyers this year is relatively low, likely due to concerns about potential robberies. Nevertheless, the traders remain hopeful of selling their animals before the week concludes, allowing them to return to their native towns and celebrate Eid with their loved ones.

Meanwhile, buyers express their dismay at the escalating prices, with goats now costing as much as cows did last year. Consequently, bargaining with traders have become protracted and challenging. Many buyers grapple with the difficult decision of undertaking such an expensive journey once more and attempting to seal the deal during their first visit.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 24^th, 2023.