RAWALPINDI: Prices of all sacrificial animals have risen sharply as Eidul Azha nears – keeping the buyers at bay.
According to a survey, prices of sacrificial animals have almost doubled as compared to normal days. There are less numbers of animals brought to the city from various parts of the country – especially from remote areas – but their prices are high.
Traders say as the prices of fodder increased, they are forced to sell their animals at high prices. “How can we afford to sell our animals at a low cost when we spend heavily to feed them?” a trader said. “Till few years ago, I sacrificed a goat regularly on every Eidul Azha but this year it is out of my reach,” said Asif – a shopkeeper. Another government employee said, “Buying a sacrificial animal is a dream now.” The trend of joint sacrifice is increasing this year due to high prices of animals.
The government has set up seven animal markets in Potohar Town. To avoid traffic rush and keep the provincial metropolis clean, the temporary markets have been set up outside the city. At some markets, there are only goats and sheep while at others, cows can also be seen. Only a small number of camels are seen in the animal markets.
.jpg)