The main cattle market for sacrificial animals at Bhatta Chowk, serving the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, officially opens Friday (today). Situated at the confluence of the two cities, the market has already received two trailers filled with sacrificial animals.
Entry fees have been set at Rs3,000 for large animals and Rs2,000 for smaller ones.
From Sunday, May 18 onwards, more trailers and trucks carrying livestock are expected to arrive, marking the beginning of the market's peak activity and the formal start of buying and selling.
Space allotments for livestock traders have begun, and preparations are underway for fodder stalls, animal grooming services, temporary eateries, tea stalls, and beverage vendors.
A sizable area next to the market has been designated for parking vehicles, motorcycles, and trailers.
Temporary electricity and water connections for stalls and animal enclosures have also been made available. Water for drinking and bathing the animals will be sold at Rs3,000 per tanker.
Tents and shades have started arriving in large numbers to provide shelter, and installation will begin today.
Though the number of animals is still limited, the market is now officially open to the public.
Weighing stations are being set up where animals will be sold based on weight, with prices aligned with the local meat market rates.
In addition, various organisations, NGOs, and religious groups have launched online Qurbani services.
Customers can now book their share of a sacrificial animal online. A share in a large animal such as a cow or bull is priced at Rs40,000 for approximately 1516 kg of meat, and Rs38,000 for 14 kg.
A small animal costing Rs70,000 yields around 15-16 kg of meat.
While Bhata Cattle Market begins operations today, it is expected to see a major influx of buyers closer to payday.
To mark the opening, traditional drum performances have been arranged, and the event is open to all, including citizens and butchers.
Following today's inauguration, additional livestock markets in Chungi No 22, Adiala Road, Chakri Road, Dhok Syedan, High Court back area, and Rawat will also become operational by Sunday.
Traders from all over the country will bring sacrificial animals for sale in these markets. The business activities at these markets will also benefit various stakeholders, including government departments, transporters, service stations, hotels, and fodder sellers.
The animals brought for sale in these markets will be examined by a team of doctors and support staff from the Livestock Department to ensure they are healthy and fit for sale. Sick animals will not be allowed to be sold in the markets.
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