Trading of sacrificial animals ahead of Eid-ul-Azha has picked up pace at 46 cattle markets throughout Barguna district this year, with particular focus on the Amtali cattle market, known as the largest market in the Barishal division.
Apart from local farmers, traders from nearby and distant regions are flocking to these markets on designated trading days to bring in their cattle.
Despite the increased supply of cattle, especially cows, many sellers are voicing concerns about not receiving anticipated prices due to higher supply compared to demand.
The Barguna District Livestock Office reports that a total of 46 cattle markets, comprising 17 permanent and 29 temporary markets, have been established across the district this year. Of these, Barguna Sadar upazila hosts 12 markets, while Patharghata, Amtali, and Taltali upazilas each have eight markets. Additionally, four markets are situated in Bamna and six in Betagi, with scheduled trading days for sacrificial animals.
This year, the district shows a demand for 40,809 sacrificial animals, exceeding the supply by 10,627 animals compared to last year’s 30,182 sacrifices in the district.
Furthermore, 140 butchers received training on slaughtering and meat processing, along with training for 115 imams. Awareness activities included the distribution of 1,760 leaflets and the organization of 35 courtyard meetings.
A recent observation at the Amtali cattle market revealed a higher presence of small and medium-sized cows, alongside buffaloes and goats. Traders from various districts, alongside local farmers, were actively engaged in selling their livestock at the market.
Mohibullah, a resident of Gulishakhali in Amtali, shared his experience of selling cows at the market, expressing concerns about recovering expenses. Another trader, Jamal Uddin, highlighted the challenges of selling his cows at desired prices despite significant investment in raising them.
Nevertheless, some sellers like Harun Gazi from Ayla area in Barguna Sadar upazila were content with their profits, having successfully sold cows at reasonable prices.
Buyers at the market had mixed reactions, with Ibrahim noting slightly higher prices compared to the previous year, while Hannan Hawlader found medium-sized cows within a manageable price range for buyers.
Market leaseholder Niaz Morshed Imon emphasized the significant attraction of the Amtali cattle market, drawing in a diverse crowd of farmers and wholesalers from distant regions, maintaining normal market conditions.
Authorities, including Barguna District Livestock Officer Dr. Md Asaduzzaman and Additional Superintendent of Police Mohammad Ibrahim, assured extensive preparations for Eid-ul-Azha, with veterinary teams monitoring markets and heightened security measures in place to ensure law and order. Police presence, including booths and counterfeit money detectors, aims to safeguard buyers and sellers from any potential disruptions.
