Sacrificial cattle market gains momentum in Kalai

Like in different parts of the country, the surficial cattle market has gained momentum in Kalai Upazila of the district ahead of holy Eid-ul-Azha. However, there is a disagreement between buyers and sellers over the price. Buyers say that the price of cattle is higher than last year, while sellers claim that they are not getting the fair price compared to the cost.

Mohibul Islam, a resident of Talukdarpara area of ​​Kalai Sadar, who came to Kalai Haat, said, “This year the asking price for a medium to large-sized cow is Tk 1.50 lakh, which is stressful for middle-class people like us.”

Another buyer named Ashraful said, “The asking price is Tk 10-12 thousand more than last year. Although there is an abundance of local cattle in the market, the price is a bit high.”

Farmer Sajedur Rahman, who came to Punat Haat, said, “Due to the increase in the price of fodder, it has cost Tk 15 to 20 thousand more to raise each cow. No one is asking the price of big cows. If they are taken back, the cost will increase further, so we are selling the cows even though we are making some losses.”

Apart from Punat, the biggest cattle haat in the upazila, visiting Kalai, Moslemganj, Matrai and Jindarpur haats, it can be seen that there is a large supply of cows, goats and buffaloes in the markets. However, the sellers say that they are worried because there are few buyers for big cattle.

Kalai Upazila Livestock Officer Dr Md Moniruzzaman said, “This year 1,84,437 cattle of domestic, Australian and Friesian breeds have been raised in 38,573 farms in the upazila. Of these, about 76,000 cows, goats, buffaloes and sheep have been prepared for sacrifice. There is a demand for 57,147 animals. The remaining about 20,000 animals will be supplied to different districts of the country. This year, about Tk 320 crore trade of sacrificial animal is expected. The veterinary medical team and security measures have been strengthened at the market.”

Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shamima Akhter Jahan said, “This year, 6 sacrificial cattle haats have been set up in the upazila. The administration is taking strict measures to ensure the security of the haats and farms. Special measures have been taken to prevent counterfeit money and a medical team has been deployed for health checks.”