Finding a busy spot: Despite ban, illegal cattle markets spring up in city

District government has not taken action against the violators.

PESHAWAR: Animal traders have set up illegal markets in busy areas of the city. Despite the ban placed by the civic body and claims of keeping sacrificial animals out of the city for cleanliness, the decision lacked implementation.

The ineffectiveness of the civic body was most apparent when traders established a cattle market right outside the district administration office near Bacha Khan Chowk. Illegal markets have also been set up Ganj Chowk and Kohati Chowk.

Feroz Shah, a district government official,

conceded that despite the ban, traders have established illegal markets in the city. He added, however, that due to the excess supply of animals this year, the designated markets have run out of space to accommodate all traders.

The large presence of animals has not only added to the city’s waste, but the markets have also provided an opportunity for criminals to deceive buyers and traders.

Muhammad Jameel, an animal trader, recounts his encounter with imposters who tried to cheat him by giving fake currency in a market at Ganj Chowk. “I was lucky not to fall victim to these people. However, there are some people who were deceived.”

Police was absent from the site and no official from the

civic body was present to administer the buying and

selling.

Traders can avoid paying taxes in undesignated markets. In the markets designated by the city districts, traders have to pay Rs700 in taxes for big animals and Rs250 for goats and sheep.