Cattle market struggles with soaring costs
Cattle market Shahpur Kanjra, a bustling livestock market, stands ready for potential buyers of sacrificial animals. However, the soaring prices of these animals have significantly dampened buyer participation.
Traders find themselves compelled to hike prices due to escalating fodder costs and inflationary pressures.
Adding to buyers' woes, a district tax of Rs900 awaits those purchasing three bulls and seeking to exit the market, further straining budgets.
Moreover, fodder prices within the market exceed general market rates.
As Eidul Azha approaches, concerns mount among Lahore residents regarding the exorbitant prices of sacrificial animals.
At Shahpur Kanjra livestock market, goats command prices ranging from Rs200,000 to Rs250,000, bulls start at Rs350,000, calves fetch between Rs200,000 to Rs250,000 and camels carry price tags ranging from Rs1.2 million to Rs1.8 million.
Entrance fees for traders include Rs500 per animal, with an additional Rs1,000 levy for animal transportation.
Buyers, when purchasing three bulls, must also pay a district token tax of Rs900 upon exiting the market. Furthermore, traders incur a charge of Rs4,000 per Kharli (feeding tray for cattle) for cleaning purposes.
Meanwhile, fodder prices within the market surpass those of the general market, with green fodder priced at Rs850 per maund and dry hay at Rs1,400 per maund.
Notably, the Punjab government has installed a water filtration plant in the cattle market, ensuring access to clean drinking water for buyers and sellers alike.
Additionally, a complaint cell has been established to address any grievances promptly.
Observing traders bathing animals in the market to shield them from the heat underscores the market's efforts to provide basic amenities.
However, traders lament the exorbitant prices charged by food and beverage stalls within the market, far exceeding government-mandated rates. Furthermore, concerns persist regarding the cleanliness and hygiene standards of these establishments.
Responding to these concerns, district government officials at the Bakra Mandi administration assert that stall vendors secured tenders at competitive rates. However, stringent oversight measures are in place to prevent overcharging and ensure fair dealings with the public.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 5th, 2024.