Preparations for countrywide cattle markets done

The government and city corporations have completed preparations for setting up sacrificial animal markets across the country, including Dhaka, ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, the second-largest religious festival for Muslims, which will be observed on May 28.

More than 3,600 temporary and permanent cattle markets (hats) will be set up nationwide this year, reports state news agency BSS.

Of these, 27 markets will be established in the capital — 11 under the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) and 16 under the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), including the well-known Gabtoli cattle market.

Alongside traditional markets, online platforms and farm-based direct sales of sacrificial animals have also gained popularity, allowing buyers to choose animals remotely from home. Many livestock farms say their pre-Eid sales are already nearing completion.

Agriculture and Livestock Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid said the country has a sufficient supply of sacrificial animals this year, exceeding the expected demand. He added that the total requirement would be met through domestic production, with no need for imports.

Owner splashes water on a cow as it is suffering from acute heat. Photo: Palash Khan/TDS

He also said strict instructions had been issued to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and police to step up surveillance and prevent the illegal entry of cattle through border areas.

Law enforcement agencies will remain on alert to ensure no cattle markets are set up on roads or at unauthorised locations.

According to the Department of Livestock Services (DLS), an estimated 12,333,840 sacrificial animals are available this year, while projected demand stands at 10,106,334, leaving a surplus of around 2.2 million animals.

Officials said the city corporations had already invited tenders for leasing cattle markets, and the process was now nearing completion.

DSCC Chief Estate Officer Mohammad Mobasser Hasan said the list of 11 markets under DSCC had been finalised, with leasing rates for nine markets exceeding government-set prices, while two bids remained under review.

The highest bidders have already been granted permission to operate their respective markets.

An estimated 12,333,840 sacrificial animals are available this year, while projected demand stands at 10,106,334, leaving a surplus of around 2.2 million animals. Photo: BSS

Under DSCC, temporary cattle markets will be set up at locations including the western side of the Postagola crematorium, Maitry Sangha ground near Shahjahanpur railway colony, Rahmatganj Club open space, Amulia Model Town, Syampur-Kadamtali truck stand, Aftabnagar blocks, areas adjacent to Sikder Medical, the Kazla Bridge to Matuail stretch, Dayaganj to Jurain rail crossing, the Banasree housing area, near Brothers Union, and the northern side of the Golapbagh staff quarter.

DNCC markets will be located at Mirpur Section-6 (Eastern Housing), Kalshi Balur Mat, the Dhaka Polytechnic Institute area, Merul-Badda kitchen market, East Hazipara near Iqra Madrasa, Basila 40-feet Road in Mohammadpur, the Sector 16-18 Uttara Diabari area, the Bhatulia-Shaheed Ali Madrasa to Uttara Ranabhola sluice gate area, Rahmannagar residential area near Kachkura Bazar, Mastul checkpost, the Bhatara-Sutibhola canal area, Banorupa residential project area, the Mohakhali-TNT area, Swadesh Property under Badda Police Station, and the Baro Beraid area of Bashundhara.

Officials said leasing of 10 DNCC markets had already been completed. Formal trading of sacrificial animals will continue for five days, including Eid day.

To ensure security, both city corporations have adopted special measures, including the deployment of plainclothes police officers at all markets. Veterinary medical teams will remain on standby at major markets to examine animals, and no animal will be allowed for sale without health clearance.

Formal trading of sacrificial animals will continue for five days, including Eid day. Photo: BSS

Separate taskforces have also been formed to manage traffic congestion, waste disposal, water supply, and overall market operations. Authorities have instructed improved lighting, sanitation, and water facilities, with special emphasis on modern waste management to reduce environmental pollution.

The traffic division has prepared a special plan to ease pressure on major city roads during the Eid period.

Meanwhile, online cattle sales have seen a sharp rise, with farm owners using social media pages, websites, and e-commerce platforms to reach buyers. Authorities said no ‘hasil’ or tax would be charged on online transactions.

Buyers can view animal photos, videos, live weight, feeding details, and farm locations online, making the process easier and reducing the need to visit physical markets, particularly for those seeking to avoid crowds or health risks.