Eid Cattle Prices Surge Across Pakistan as Buyers Crowd Livestock Markets

Eid cattle prices have increased sharply across Pakistan as families prepare for Eid al-Adha celebrations. Livestock markets in major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Quetta have become crowded with buyers and traders. Temporary cattle bazaars are also operating in smaller towns nationwide. However, many citizens say the rising cost of sacrificial animals has created financial pressure for middle-income families. Buyers hope authorities will take steps to control prices and improve market regulation before Eid.

Buyers Struggle With Rising Animal Costs

Traders have brought a wide variety of goats, cows, and other sacrificial animals to markets across the country. However, prices remain much higher than previous years. Buyers said goats once available for around Rs50,000 now cost more than Rs100,000 in many markets. Similarly, prices of cows and larger animals have also increased sharply.
Citizens believe the price hikes have made it difficult for average families to fulfill religious traditions comfortably. Therefore, many people have urged authorities to monitor markets and stop unjustified increases. Some buyers also complained about inconsistent pricing at different cattle bazaars.
Meanwhile, livestock traders expect customer turnout to increase in the final days before Eid al-Adha. They explained that rising costs of fodder, transportation, and animal care forced them to raise prices this year.

Authorities Increase Safety and Hygiene Measures

Provincial administrations have introduced extensive arrangements to maintain safety and cleanliness at cattle markets. Departments including livestock services, sanitation teams, and Rescue 1122 have established camps to assist visitors and traders.
Authorities are also spraying animals and conducting veterinary monitoring to prevent Congo virus and lumpy skin disease. In addition, officials improved parking, water supply, sanitation, and traffic management around markets. Under the directions of Maryam Nawaz Sharif, authorities enhanced CCTV and drone surveillance while police teams increased security for women and children.