Temporary meat markets thrive in Pindi

RAWALPINDI:

During the three days of Eidul Azha, temporary meat markets sprang up across central Rawalpindi, particularly along Jamia Masjid Road, Fawara Chowk, and Ganj Mandi Road. These makeshift stalls sold sacrificial mutton and beef collected from neighbourhoods and streets.

Several families of professional beggars set up meat stalls, offering mutton at Rs1,000 to Rs1,200 per kilogramme and beef at Rs600 per kilogramme—significantly lower than open market prices, where mutton sells for Rs2,400 and beef for Rs1,400 per kilogramme.

Meat sales peaked throughout Eid on Jamia Masjid Road, Raja Bazaar, and Ganj Mandi Road. Men, women, and children—all identified as professional beggars—were seen running these temporary stalls. The meat attracted considerable attention from middle-class buyers, while small restaurant and dhaba owners purchased it in bulk. Street vendors, especially kebab sellers operating from carts, also bought large quantities.

In addition to meat, the heads and hooves of goats, sheep, and bulls were cleaned and sold. Many of these vendors used motorcycle rickshaws to transport their goods.

Due to the abundance of sacrificial meat, most butcher shops in the twin cities are expected to remain closed for the next two weeks.