Chattogram has 8.6 lakh (860,000) animals ready for sacrifice during Eid-ul-Azha this year. But the demand is slightly higher — about 8.96 lakh (896,000) animals — which means there could be a shortage of around 36,000 animals.
Officials from the Livestock Department believe animals from the three nearby hill districts will help fill this gap. They also say animals from nearby districts may come, which could even lead to extra supply in the markets.
Dr. Md. Alamgir, Chattogram’s Livestock Officer, said, “There is nothing to worry about. We are in contact with other districts, and they have enough animals. Traders can easily bring animals from those places. The main concern is that prices may go up due to high feed costs.”
Khokon Uddin, a farmer from Sitakunda Upazila, said he is getting ready to take cows and goats to the city’s small markets. “Many people have contacted us already. But prices will be a bit higher this year because the cost of animal feed has gone up a lot,” he said.
He explained that a few years ago, wheat bran cost Tk 25-30 per kg, but now it’s Tk 35-40. ‘Shoro Khol’ (mustard meal), which used to be Tk 40-45, is now over Tk 70 per kg. “This has made it hard for small farmers like us. We are spending more to raise animals, but not getting enough in return. I hope to get a good price during Eid. If feed prices don’t go down, many farmers might have to shut down,” he added.
Meanwhile, the city corporation and district administration are preparing the cattle markets.
They already allotted lease taking steps to make sure the markets are safe and follow health rules.
