Lahore:
As Lahore observes Eid-Ul-Adha today, the focus has shifted from busy cattle markets to the traditional victims that mark the festival. However, many citizens express concern about the rising costs of livestock and ineffective enforcement of price and security regulations.
In the days leading up to Eid, cattle markets all over the city were filled with buyers and animals arriving from regions such as South Punjab. Despite the festive spirit, shoppers were left frustrated with what they say were unjustified price increases.
“A calf or bull that costs between RS150,000 and RS250,000 last year is now sold for RS350,000 to RS500,000,” said Muhammad Hanif, a buyer at Shahpur Kanjran Cattle Market.
“Even goats and sheep are priced as high as RS250,000 to RS300,000.”
Kamran Bhatti, resident of Valencia Town, repeated the mood. “There is no price mechanism at all. Sellers quote what they want – some require up to a million rupees for a few small animals,” he said.
“The government should promote local breeding and invest in livestock farming to stabilize the market and create employment.”
However, cattle dealers accused the increased prices of rising operating costs.
“We are not over -charging – our own costs have risen significantly,” said Sadaqat Ali, a trader who brought animals from Multan.
“High fuel prices, transport costs and labor wages have pushed up our costs. If the government addresses these problems, livestock prices will automatically fall.”
To ensure organized and hygienic trade, the Lahore District Administration established six official cattle markets. In addition to the permanent market in Shahpur Kanjran, five temporary facilities were set up in key spaces across the city, including Haveli Markaz near Spring Mill (Raiwind Zone), the Sports Complex nearby (Cantonment Zone). In an attempt to maintain public order and sanitation, the Punjab government also introduced section 144 throughout the province from June 5 to June 11.
