20-25% increase from last year makes Eidul Azha preparations a big financial burden on citizens
PESHAWAR:
With only a few days left for Eidul Azha, the prices of sacrificial animals in Peshawar and its surrounding livestock markets have soared so high that they have become completely unaffordable for low-income and middle-class families.
Buyers entering the markets are stunned when they hear the prices, and many experience acute anxiety and disappointment. A market survey reveals a sharp increase of 20 to 25 percent in the prices of sacrificial animals across both small and large, temporary and permanent markets in Peshawar this year compared to last year. The increase has turned the performance of the sacred tradition into a severe ordeal for wage earners and the middle class.
Although there is no dearth of cattle and goats, with animals visible in abundance in major markets including Ring Road, Lala Kala, Palosi and Charsadda Road markets as well as other suburbs, the usual festive hustle and bustle is lacking. Traders can be seen eagerly waiting for customers from morning to evening.
Most visitors to the markets limit themselves to price inquiries rather than making purchases. When they hear the advertised prices, they are forced to return without buying anything.
Citizens have expressed strong anger and resentment against both the administration and the cattle dealers. Buyers in the markets complained that inflation had already made it difficult to survive and the current animal prices are now completely out of sync with their budgets.
“Last year, a good calf or bull was available for Rs1.5 to 2 lakh. This time traders are demanding Rs3 to 3.5 lakh,” said concerned citizens. “It has become almost impossible for the middle class to buy even a single large animal or a quality goat.”
‘Multani Raja’ steals the show
A massive bull named ‘Multani Raja’, brought from Multan, has become the star attraction at Peshawar’s local cattle market, attracting crowds of buyers and onlookers.
With its striking appearance, vibrant coat and impressive build, the bull has emerged as the center of attention. According to the owner, ‘Multani Raja’ weighs between 10 and 11 maunds (about 400-440 kg). The owner is demanding Rs1.6 million for the animal, leaving traders and big animal enthusiasts in the market stunned by its size and beauty. Long queues have formed as people flock to catch a glimpse of the impressive bull.
At the same time, animal prices across the board are significantly higher this year. Traders, both local and those from Punjab, attribute the increase primarily to the prolonged closure of the Pak-Afghan border, which has completely stopped the supply of cheaper animals from Afghanistan.
“Demand for goats and sheep in Peshawar markets is always strong, but we are now forced to source animals from distant markets in Punjab where prices are much higher than last year,” traders said. They pointed to additional costs, including transportation, market fees and daily feed and maintenance expenses for large animals, which have now reached up to Rs 3,000. per day amid rising inflation. “If we don’t sell at these prices, we will suffer huge losses,” they added.
