Cattle markets buzz, but prices soar

Traders cite rising fodder, transport, and maintenance costs as reasons for hike

ISLAMABAD:

As Eidul Azha approaches, the cattle markets are setting up in different specified places of Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), including Sangjhani, Sector I-15, Bharakahu, Lehtrar Road and Islamabad Expressway.

At I-15 cattle markets, Abdul Shakoor, who brought his animals from Arifwala, said: "We are satisfied with the market setup, especially the availability of basic facilities like water and electricity." He emphasised that water is crucial for maintaining the health and vitality of the animals when the temperature is at its peak.

Moin Khan, the manager of the Mandi, highlighted that the market spans over 1,000 kanals and is divided into blocks to streamline management. "We have focused particularly on ensuring the availability of water, electricity, and proper security arrangements," he said. Each trader has been allotted around 150 to 200 square feet of space to conduct business in an organised way, he said, adding that additional measures have also been taken to ensure safety and prevent any untoward incidents.

The different sizes of cow, goat, and sheep are available in this mandi but prices are high as compared to last year.

Sardar Shah, a goat seller from Mianwali said that the prices of goat are between Rs50,000 and Rs350,000 according to their specifications. While Muhammad Imran, another seller, who brought their cows from Multan, offered prices Rs230,000 to Rs600,000 or their bulls depending on their weight and size. However, residents are enthusiastic about the market's setup, but got frustrated over the high prices of both small and big animals.

A customer, Abdul Manan, who was looking for a sacrificial animal, said: "The market is impressive in scale, but the prices are shockingly high. A goat of average weight is being sold for Rs120,000, significantly more than what I paid last year for a similar one."

On the other hand, traders argued that the cost of raising animals has increased, which has forced them to increase the prices. Sardar Shah explained that fodder, transport, and other essentials are expensive which affects the final price of the animals. Despite high prices, buyers are struggling to find suitable animals for the Islamic ritual. They are actively bargaining to negotiate better prices and remain hopeful of finding their desired animal in the large cattle markets, where animals of all sizes are available.