Dhaka's cattle markets abuzz with buyers, sellers

Cattle markets across the capital have turned vibrant ahead of the holy Eid-ul-Adha, with the number of buyers and sellers increasing as the Eid holidays begin.

A festive atmosphere now prevails at sacrificial animal markets across the city, where the sounds of cattle, bargaining, and heavy crowds continue from morning until late at night.

A total of 27 cattle markets have been set up under the two city corporations in the city this year. Of those, 11 are operating under Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) and 16 under Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC). 

Among those, the Gabtoli cattle market, one of the largest and most well-known in the capital, has emerged as a major centre of attraction.

Since early Monday, cattle markets across the capital have witnessed intense activity. Trucks loaded with cows, goats and buffaloes from different districts are arriving at the markets. 

Farmers from Kushtia, Pabna, Sirajganj, Natore, Cumilla, Naogaon and Rajbari have brought their livestock to the capital in hopes of securing good prices.

Visits to different markets showed that medium-sized local cows are in the highest demand.

A large segment of middle-income and lower middle-income buyers are seeking quality animals within their budgets.

Many are visiting markets with family members to inspect animals, negotiate prices and purchase preferred livestock, while others are coming simply to experience the atmosphere.

According to buyers, animals are available at relatively affordable prices after several rounds of bargaining, although prices of large-sized cattle remain high. 

Sellers, however, said a wide range of livestock at varying prices is available this year due to increased supply from farmers.

They expect the highest volume of sales during the final two days before Eid.

Raisul, a farmer visiting Shahjahanpur market, said, "Feed and transportation costs have increased. So we have to ask for somewhat higher prices. However, buyers' affordability is also being taken into consideration."

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies are actively working to maintain order at the markets and prevent the circulation of counterfeit currency. 

Police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and members of other security agencies have been deployed at every major market in the capital. 

In addition, various banks have set up counterfeit currency detection booths and cash counting machines.

Many banks are also offering account-opening facilities for livestock traders within just five minutes.

State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, while visiting cattle markets, said there would be no shortage of sacrificial animals in the country this year.

Domestic livestock production would be sufficient to meet demand, he added. 

He also said Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and police had been instructed to maintain strict surveillance to prevent illegal entry of livestock through border areas.

According to the Department of Livestock Services, the total number of sacrificial livestock in the country this year stands at 12,333,840, while projected demand has been estimated at 10,106,334.

Accordingly, more than 2.2 million animals are expected to remain surplus beyond demand.

Temporary cattle markets under DSCC have been set up in Postogola, Shahjahanpur, Rahmatganj, Amulia, Shyampur, Aftabnagar, Kajla-Matuail area, Dayaganj-Jurain, Banasree, Golapbag and other locations. 

On the other hand, temporary cattle markets under DNCC have been established in Mirpur, Kalshi, Boshila, Uttara Diabari, Bhatara, Badda, Mohakhali and areas adjacent to Bashundhara.

The cattle markets in the capital now reflect a distinct Eid atmosphere.

Bargaining by buyers, calls from sellers and preparations for sacrifice have added festive spirit to urban life. 

As Eid draws closer, the vibrancy of markets and pace of trading continue to increase.