Truckload after truckload of animals is entering markets in Rupganj upazila of Narayanganj. The markets are full of sacrificial animals and there are buyers too, but sales have not yet started in earnest, to the disappointment of sellers and market lessees.

Sacrificial animals are being bought and sold at 18 markets in the upazila, 16 temporary and two permanent.

A tour of the upazila's markets on Monday (26 June) found publicity in full swing to attract buyers, with colourful banners and gates. Rows of animals were tied to bamboo posts. Plenty of sacrificial animals had arrived at every market, with comparatively more medium and small cattle.

As Eid approaches, the crowds of buyers and sellers are growing. Traders and farmers say prices for sacrificial animals are good, while buyers say animals are being priced high this year.

Wholesaler Azmatulla Sikder, who brought cattle to the Noapara market from Sirajganj, said: "I brought 10 cattle weighing three to six maunds and have sold two. I'm selling at Tk 30,000-35,000 per maund of weight."

Idris Mia, who brought 12 cattle from Bogura, said buyers were coming but sales were low. "Buyers are looking and bargaining. Sales haven't really begun yet. They may pick up from Tuesday."

Mohibur Rahman, a buyer at Noapara, said he buys cattle from a farm every year. "Buying from a farm has advantages. You can keep the cow at the farm until Eid and avoid the extra hassle of taking it home. But this year prices are a bit higher."

Rupganj Upazila Livestock Officer Dr Rigan Molla told Jago News that the upazila's markets have twice as many sacrificial animals as needed. Veterinary teams are on standby at the markets to give animals emergency treatment.

Rupganj police station Inspector (Investigation) Ataur Rahman told Jago News that police are deployed for overall security at the markets, and counterfeit note detection machines have also been installed.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.