LAHORE: As Eidul Azha approaches, cattle markets across Lahore are bustling, but soaring prices of sacrificial animals have frustrated many buyers. Sellers attribute the increase to higher costs in animal husbandry and transportation.
At Shahpur Kanjran, the largest cattle market in the city, prices for goats have risen by 80 to 90 percent compared to last year, with small goats starting at Rs80,000 to Rs90,000 and some reaching hundreds of thousands depending on breed and appearance. Larger animals like calves, cows, and bulls are priced between Rs200,000 and Rs500,000 or more, while premium livestock sell for over a million rupees.
Buyers expressed concern over the commercialization of the religious tradition, calling for government intervention. Muhammad Buksh said Eidul Azha has become a season of profiteering, burdening the middle class. Zia Qureshi urged authorities to regulate prices to enable more people to perform qurbani.
Traders defended the hikes, pointing to increased fuel prices, transportation costs, and operational expenses. Muhammad Boota from Rahim Yar Khan said rising fuel prices have doubled transportation costs, and additional charges such as loading fees and roadside bribes add to expenses.
Despite the crowd, some traders noted slow sales as many buyers appear to be waiting for last-minute deals.
Lahore Division Commissioner Zaid bin Maqsood inspected preparations at the Halloki cattle market, reviewing facilities such as electricity, potable water, sanitation, and medical support. He emphasized strict enforcement against unauthorized cattle enclosures, directing officials to dismantle illegal setups and maintain zero tolerance for violations.
Medical facilities and veterinary services have been arranged across temporary markets to protect sacrificial animals from diseases.
