Sacrificial animal trade kicks off

LAHORE: Trading in sacrificial animals has started at all eight official cattle markets in the district ahead of Eidul Azha, with buyers facing sharply higher prices and authorities issuing a red alert over the risk of Congo virus.

Concerns raised by animal experts about the possible spread of Congo virus among livestock prompted approval for the deployment of veterinary doctors and staff at all cattle markets. The doctors and support staff are expected to be posted at the markets during the current week to examine animals entering the facilities.

Citizens have also been advised to inspect sacrificial animals carefully for ticks before making a purchase.

Traffic disruption around markets

As animals began arriving in large trailers and trucks at the central Bhata cattle market, traffic congestion intensified in nearby areas. Roadside shopkeepers have also started experiencing losses because of the growing gridlock.

Residents of the area called for a ban on the entry of animal transport vehicles during daytime hours from 7am to 9pm. They demanded that loaded trailers be allowed to use local roads only between 9pm and 6am in order to avoid severe traffic disruption and losses to businesses.

Parking arrangements for loader vehicles have meanwhile been initiated at all eight cattle markets.

Transport costs add to buyers’ burden

In addition to the high prices of animals, buyers are also facing record transportation charges for loading and unloading. Even for short distances this year, transport costs are ranging from Rs2,500 to Rs3,000, further increasing the expense of purchasing sacrificial animals.

A proposal has also been sent to the district administration seeking the launch of a free transport service from the central Bhata market to the city.

Market rates climb sharply

Market prices this year show a steep rise across categories of sacrificial animals. An ordinary goat is being sold for between Rs90,000 and Rs120,000, while a medium-sized goat or sheep is priced at around Rs150,000.

Attractive goats and sheep are available in the range of Rs180,000 to Rs200,000, while premium breeds are being sold for Rs300,000 to Rs500,000.

Among cattle, ordinary bulls are available for about Rs240,000. Medium-sized bulls are priced between Rs280,000 and Rs300,000, while better-quality bulls are being sold for Rs300,000 to Rs400,000. Premium bulls are fetching between Rs800,000 and Rs1.4 million.

The record-high rates at the district’s official cattle markets have left many buyers surprised as Eidul Azha approaches.