20-25% increase compared to last year turns Eidul Azha preparations into a major financial constraint for citizens
PESHAWAR:
With Eidul Azha just days away, prices of sacrificial animals in Peshawar and 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 rates, and many feel acute anxiety and disappointment. A market survey reveals a sharp increase of 20 to 25 percent in the prices of sacrificial animals in small and large temporary and permanent markets in Peshawar this year compared to last year. This wave transformed the exercise of the sacred tradition into a harsh ordeal for employees and the middle class.
Although there is no shortage of cattle and goats, with animals seen in abundance at major markets including Ring Road, Lala Kala, Palosi and Charsadda Road markets as well as other suburban sites, the usual festive hustle and bustle is notably absent. Shopkeepers can be seen impatiently waiting for their customers from morning to evening.
Most visitors to markets simply inquire about prices rather than make purchases. After hearing the prices quoted, they are forced to return without buying anything.
Citizens expressed their anger and resentment against the administration and livestock traders. Buyers at the markets complained that inflation had already made it difficult for them to survive and that current animal prices were now completely out of sync with their budgets.
“Last year, a good calf or bull was available for Rs 1.5 to 2 lakh. This time, traders are demanding Rs 3 to 3.5 lakh,” said the concerned citizens. “It has become almost impossible for the middle class to buy even one large animal or one quality goat.”
‘Multani Raja’ steals the show
A huge bull named ‘Multani Raja’, imported from Multan, has become the star attraction at the local livestock market in Peshawar, attracting crowds of buyers and spectators.
With its striking appearance, vibrant coat and impressive build, the bull became the center of attention. According to its owner, “Multani Raja” weighs between 10 and 11 mah (around 400 to 440 kg). The owner is asking Rs 1.6 million for the animal, leaving traders and big animal lovers in the market amazed by its size and beauty. Long queues formed as people flocked to catch a glimpse of the impressive bull.
At the same time, animal prices are significantly higher overall this year. Traders, both local and those from Punjab, attribute the rise mainly to the prolonged closure of the Pak-Afghan border, which has completely disrupted the supply of cheaper animals from Afghanistan.
“The demand for goats and sheep in Peshawar markets is still strong, but we are now forced to source the animals from distant markets in Punjab, where prices are much higher than last year,” traders said. They highlighted additional costs, including transport, market fees and daily expenses for fodder and maintenance of large animals, which now reach up to Rs 3,000 per day amid soaring inflation. “If we do not sell at these rates, we will incur heavy losses,” they added.
