Pindi greenlights 12 cattle markets

RAWALPINDI:

The district administration has approved the setup of sacrificial animal markets at 12 designated locations across Rawalpindi, starting from May 28.

Selling animals in residential streets, alleys, or on busy inner-city roads will be strictly prohibited. Violators may face fines, challans, and confiscation of animals.

The livestock markets will be organised under the supervision of District Council, Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB), and Chaklala Cantonment Board (CCB). The process for awarding contracts for managing these markets has already begun.

Facilities in these markets, such as drinking water for animals and traders, as well as electricity, will be provided against charges. Temporary electricity meters will be installed, and water will be supplied via tankers, also on a paid basis. Tent shades and waiting areas will be the responsibility of stall holders.

This year, reports of rising prices for sacrificial animals are already causing concern among buyers.

Traders estimate a 30–40% increase in prices compared to last year. Key reasons cited include high utility bills, costly stall and land rentals, expensive transportation of animals, toll taxes, and the steep prices of fodder and drinking water within the markets.

The largest market will be set up under the RCB at Bhatta Chowk, near the border area of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Spaces for food stalls, beverages, animal decoration items, and fodder will also be rented out. Parking fees for loader vehicles and buyers' cars have also been increased.

Under the District Council's supervision, livestock markets will be established at Rawat, Adiala Road, Chakri Road, Gujar Khan, Kallar Syedan, Kahuta, Kotli Sattian, Murree, and Taxila. CCB will set up markets near Mareer Chowk beside Sangit Cinema, and another one will be located behind the Lahore High Court (LHC) Rawalpindi Bench as per tradition.

Preparation for market setup will begin from May 15, and animal arrivals and early sales are also expected to start from that date. However, the markets will officially operate from May 28 until the evening of the second day of Eid.

As per current price ranges, bulls are expected to cost between Rs300,000 to Rs1.5 million, while goats and sheep are priced from Rs130,000 to Rs300,000, with prices expected to rise further closer to Eidul Azha.

Entry fees have also been fixed at Rs2,000 for small animals and Rs3,000 for large animals. Contractors will also be responsible for daily cleaning and sanitation of the markets.