As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, Dhaka’s temporary cattle markets are rapidly taking shape, signaling the start of the city’s bustling livestock trade season. With traders arriving from across the country and makeshift haats sprouting up into the skyline, the city is witnessing the familiar sights of surging crowds, rising prices, and sprawling pens filled with cattle ready for sacrifice.
Known locally as Qurbani haats, these markets appear every year just ahead of Eid to meet the heightened demand for sacrificial animals. Typically set up two to three weeks prior under the supervision of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), the markets officially kicked off in late May, as traders from rural districts began arriving with cows, goats, and buffaloes. Due to stricter border controls, fewer animals are coming from India and Nepal this year.
This year, Dhaka has designated 18 official cattle markets, including Gabtoli the city’s only permanent haat and temporary sites such as Sadeque Hossain Khoka Playground, Dholaikhal, Basila, Kamrangirchar, Eastern Housing, Mirpur, and Uttara Sector 15. Alongside these, smaller unauthorized haats have started emerging in various localities, reflecting the growing demand.
A visit to these sites reveals rapid development: bamboo structures are already in place, sellers and farm owners have marked their spaces with signboards, and livestock-laden pickup trucks navigate busy streets, with tarpaulin-covered pens taking shape above the crowds.
Jamal Hossain, a resident of Mirpur, shared his daily observations: “I pass by Gabtoli every day. The market is already packed, even though it’s still unofficial. Prices are sky-high, and negotiations are tough.” A trader from Pabna highlighted the rising costs this year, citing increased fuel prices and tolls that have pushed transport expenses higher, making lower prices difficult to offer.
At the Dania College Open Market, Abbas Ali from Faridpur stood beside his six oxen, describing the cautious mood: “We are ready to sell, but early sales are rare. People are just discussing prices right now.” He also noted that cattle prices are climbing due to feed and transport costs, affecting both sellers and buyers.
Preparation and Challenges
To facilitate smooth operations, city authorities have begun infrastructure improvements at haat sites, including water supply, waste management, mobile veterinary clinics, CCTV surveillance, and security patrols. Digital payment options are also being promoted to reduce fraud and theft, with online cattle-selling platforms gaining popularity for their home delivery services and cashless transactions.
However, challenges persist. Traffic congestion near haats is worsening, sanitation concerns are rising with increased livestock waste, and illegal markets are complicating oversight efforts. Price fluctuations driven by demand and supply chain disruptions further add to the unpredictability of this season.
Despite these hurdles, the spirit of Qurbani remains strong. The markets are in full swing, signaling Dhaka’s busiest trading period of the year. Both buyers and sellers are optimistic for a safe and successful Eid, blending cherished traditions with modern conveniences.
Supporting Financial Transactions
To assist with the surge in financial activities, Bangladesh Bank has ordered bank branches near haats in Dhaka and Chattogram to remain open from 10 am to 10 pm starting June 3 until Eid eve, ensuring smooth cash and digital transactions during this crucial period.
+ There are no comments
Add yours