With the holy festival of Eid-ul-Azha approaching, temporary cattle markets have begun to spring up across Dhaka. These markets are showcasing locally raised cows, goats, buffaloes, and sheep—alongside a few exotic animals like camels and dumba (fat-tailed sheep).
However, buying and selling activities have yet to pick up pace as both buyers and sellers appear to be waiting for the customary last-minute rush.
This year, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has confirmed that domestic farms are fully capable of meeting the country’s sacrificial animal demand. Unlike a decade ago, when Eid markets were heavily dependent on imports—particularly from India—the current livestock infrastructure in Bangladesh has significantly reduced that reliance.
In total, 19 temporary cattle markets have been approved by the two city corporations in Dhaka—12 under Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and 7 under Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).
Alongside these, permanent markets in Gabtoli and Sarulia (Demra), as well as a large market on the 300-foot road in Purbachal, are also operational.
Demand on online platforms is also on the rise this year, with more people opting to purchase sacrificial animals virtually—largely to avoid the hassle and health risks associated with crowded markets.
At Gabtoli, Dhaka’s largest cattle market, livestock has begun arriving in numbers, including cows, buffaloes, sheep, and even camels.
A field visit on Tuesday revealed that traders and farm owners from various parts of the country are transporting their animals to the capital, though customer turnout remains low at this stage.
Abul Kashem, a cattle trader from Shailkupa in Kushtia, brought 15 cows to the Basila market in Mohammadpur. “Most of my animals are local breeds. Prices are slightly higher this year compared to last, but we are yet to see serious buyers,” he said.
Rabiul Islam, another trader from Pabna, said, “Markets in rural areas are bustling, but Dhaka’s cattle markets haven’t picked up yet. Buyers come, inquire about prices, and leave.”
In Gabtoli, farmers from Sirajganj, Pabna, and Rajbari were seen arriving with groups of 10 to 20 cattle.
Saber Hossain, who brought a large red cow from Jashore, has priced it at Tk20 lakh. “This is a Pakistani Sindhi breed with a hefty weight and eye-catching appearance. But I haven’t found a buyer yet,” he shared.
At the Purbachal market, Mohammad Rahman, a buyer, said he had purchased a medium-sized local cow for Tk85,000. “I was looking for something decent within budget, and I think I found it,” he added.
Leaseholders said that recent rain slowed down the early flow of animals, but they are optimistic.
Mojibullah Khandaker, owner of Surmi Enterprise, lessee of the Mastul cattle market, said, “Animals have started arriving. Some buyers are showing interest too. But most sales happen two days before Eid.”
Ratan Miah of Sohag Enterprise, lessee of the Eastern Housing cattle market, said, “Rain kept the numbers low for the past two days. But from Monday, more traders are arriving. Sales should pick up from Wednesday.”
According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, a total of 12,447,337 animals are ready for sacrifice, including 5,602,905 cows and buffaloes, 6,838,920 goats and sheep, and 5,512 other animals
According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, 12,447,337 sacrificial animals have been prepared this year across 887,544 farms in the country. These include over 5,602,905 cows and buffaloes, 6,838,920 million goats and sheep, and around 5,512 animals of other breeds. The government expects a surplus of 2,068,135 animals.
Dr Md Bayzer Rahman, Director at the Department of Livestock Services, said, “There is no shortage of animals this year. Prices should remain stable, ensuring fair returns for farmers.”
Roughly 70 percent of the national demand is expected to be met by three divisions, with Rajshahi alone contributing around 35 percent. Preliminary estimates suggest that the market value of sacrificial animals this year will exceed Tk 670 billion.
Authorities from both city corporations and law enforcement agencies have put enhanced safety and support measures in place. CCTV cameras, adequate lighting, and on-site medical teams have been deployed at all cattle markets to ensure smooth operations and public safety.
Mobile courts are also active across the city to monitor prices, and tackle any form of malpractice.
