Cattle markets in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad have seen a sharp rise in prices ahead of Eidul Azha, leaving many buyers struggling to afford sacrificial animals.
Prices for goats, cows, and buffaloes have surged by up to 30% compared to last year, with traders citing increased costs of feed, transportation, and rising demand as key factors.
Ali Asad, a local buyer, shared his frustration: "I had budgeted Rs50,000 for a goat, but the same quality now costs Rs70,000. This is putting a huge strain on middle-class families."
He added that small goats now cost as much as Rs100,000, while the price of a heifer has jumped from Rs150,000 to Rs240,000. Another buyer, Muhammad Arshad, echoed similar concerns, saying many people are being forced to compromise on the size or quality of animals due to unaffordable rates. He called for government intervention and a standardised pricing mechanism to prevent exploitation.
Meanwhile, some buyers are turning to online platforms for more affordable options, a trend that gained popularity during the pandemic.
Cattle trader Muhammad Imtiaz defended the high prices, stating, "We've seen a significant rise in fodder, fuel, and labour costs. While demand is high, we also need to adjust prices to cover expenses and ensure fair profit." Despite the inflation, enthusiasm for Eid preparations remains strong, though affordability remains a key concern for many families.
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