Sacrificial animal prices soar in Peshawar

20-25% increase from last year turns Eidul Azha preparations into a major financial strain for citizens

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PESHAWAR:

With only a few days remaining until Eidul Azha, prices of sacrificial animals in Peshawar and its surrounding livestock markets have soared so high that they have become completely unaffordable for low-income and middle-class families.

Buyers entering the markets are left stunned upon hearing the rates, with many experiencing acute anxiety and disappointment. A market survey reveals a sharp 20 to 25 per cent increase in the prices of sacrificial animals across both small and large, temporary and permanent markets in Peshawar this year compared to last year. The surge has transformed the performance of the sacred tradition into a tough ordeal for the salaried and middle class.

Although there is no shortage of cattle and goats, with animals visible in abundance at major markets including Ring Road, Lala Kala, Palosi, and Charsadda Road markets as well as other suburban sites, the usual festive rush and hustle is notably missing. Traders can be seen waiting eagerly for customers from morning till evening.

Most visitors to the markets are limiting themselves to price inquiries rather than making purchases. Upon hearing the quoted rates, they are forced to return without buying anything.

Citizens have voiced strong anger and resentment against both the administration and livestock traders. Buyers at the markets complained that inflation had already made survival difficult, and the current animal prices are now entirely out of sync with their budgets.

"Last year, a good calf or bull was available for Rs1.5 to 2 lakh. This time, traders are demanding Rs3 to 3.5 lakh," said affected citizens. "It has become almost impossible for the middle class to buy even a single large animal or a quality goat."

'Multani Raja' Steals the Show

A massive bull named 'Multani Raja', brought from Multan, has become the star attraction at Peshawar's local cattle market, drawing crowds of buyers and spectators.

With its striking appearance, vibrant coat, and impressive build, the bull has emerged as the centre of attention. According to its owner, 'Multani Raja' weighs between 10 to 11 maunds (approximately 400–440 kg). The owner is demanding Rs1.6 million for the animal, leaving traders and large-animal enthusiasts in the market astonished by its size and beauty. Long queues have formed as people flock to catch a glimpse of the impressive bull.

Meanwhile, animal prices across the board are significantly higher this year. Traders, both local and those from Punjab, attribute the surge primarily to the prolonged closure of the Pak-Afghan border, which has completely halted the supply of cheaper animals from Afghanistan.

"Demand for goats and sheep in Peshawar markets is always strong, but we are now forced to source animals from distant markets in Punjab, where prices are much higher than last year," traders said. They pointed to additional costs including transportation, market fees, and daily fodder and maintenance expenses for large animals, which have now reached up to Rs3,000 per day amid soaring inflation. "If we don't sell at these rates, we will incur heavy losses," they added.