ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – With Eidul Azha 2026 approaching, cattle markets across Pakistan are bustling with activity as traders display sacrificial animals and citizens flock to make their purchases.
Major cities including Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta, along with smaller towns, have set up dedicated markets, which will remain active until the third day of Eid.
While traders have brought different kinds of sacrificial animals to the markets, ordinary citizens are facing difficulties due to rising inflation. The cost of sacrificial animals has increased sharply this year; for example, a goat previously sold for Rs50,000 is now priced above Rs100,000. Similarly, the prices of larger animals have surged, putting them out of reach for many buyers. Citizens have urged authorities to monitor prices and curb artificial inflation to ensure affordability.
Traders, on the other hand, remain hopeful that buying activity will intensify as Eid approaches. They have cited higher expenses for feed, transportation, and animal care as reasons for price increases.
Special Arrangements for Safety and Hygiene
Authorities have implemented special arrangements to ensure the safety and welfare of animals and citizens. Livestock, sanitation, and emergency camps have been set up, including facilities by the Livestock Department, Punjab Saaf Rahain Program, and Rescue 1122. Animals are being sprayed to protect against Congo virus and lumpy skin disease, and markets are receiving attention for cleanliness, parking, water, and traffic management.
Provincial directives include strict monitoring of illegal livestock markets, CCTV and drone surveillance, and dedicated police squads for the safety of women and children. Under the guidance of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, special sanitation and security plans have been implemented, with control rooms for quick complaint resolution and temporary collection points for waste disposal.