The sale of sacrificial animals in Dhakas makeshift cattle markets gained momentum on Friday, just days ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. Additionally, many animals are being sold through various online platforms.
A large number of sacrificial animals have been arriving from across the country to the 16 temporary and 2 permanent markets under the jurisdiction of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). Despite the influx of animals, prices remain relatively high.
Traders continue to bring their livestock to the DNCC and DSCC markets, anticipating that most sales will occur two to three days before Eid, when the holiday begins and demand peaks.
According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, there are 12.9 million sacrificial animals ready for sale nationwide, against an estimated demand of 10.7 million.
At the Postagola makeshift cattle market near the Buriganga River, many sellers were seen preparing their animals by washing them and providing food. Prospective buyers are visiting the market to gauge prices, which they report are higher compared to last year. Many are hopeful that prices will drop closer to Eid.
Alam Khan, who visited the Postagola market with his children, observed, "I think the prices are a bit high this year compared to previous years. Last year, I bought a cow for Tk 1 lakh, but this year, traders are asking for around Tk 1.5 lakh for a similar cow."
Last year, prices of sacrificial animals dropped significantly two days before Eid, causing concern among traders who fear similar losses this year due to lower customer turnout.
Md Ikram, a trader from Sirajganj, brought five cows to the Dholaikhal cattle market. "Last year, I faced a loss as the prices dropped before Eid. This year, I have brought five bulls, each priced around Tk 1 lakh. The demand for small-sized bulls is good, but supply is low, so I am expecting some profit," he told the Daily Observer.
Alam Sarkar, along with five of his neighbours, brought 27 cows from Rajshahi to the Gopibagh cattle market. "I had to take a Tk 10 lakh loan to bring the cattle to the capital. Sales have been slow so far. I brought eight large bulls, each priced between Tk 5.5 lakh and Tk 8.5 lakh. Many farmers didn raise bulls this year after facing losses last year, which is why there are fewer large bulls in the market," Alam explained.
At the Mohammadpur Bosila Haat, buyer Rashid Hossain shared, "This year, my budget is between Tk 100,000 and Tk 102,000 for a sacrificial animal, but I haven found one within my budget yet."
In response to the seasonal influx of people returning home and the bustling cattle markets, the government has issued directives to ensure the safety and smooth operation of sales and travel.
