Dhaka, Jun 06 (V7N) – On the eve of Eid-ul-Azha, the capital's designated cattle markets are facing a noticeable shortage of sacrificial animals, especially small and medium-sized cows and goats. Since Friday morning (June 6), most market enclosures set up for these animals have remained empty, frustrating last-minute buyers.

A field visit by Voice7 News to several major cattle markets in Dhaka revealed a low supply of cows, with demand outweighing availability. Though the number of buyers was comparatively low on the final day, those who came expressed disappointment and urgency. Many said they had no time to explore options and were buying animals that were close to their budget as soon as they found one they liked.

“I searched in two different markets this morning. The animals I saw yesterday are all gone. The few left are overpriced,” said a buyer at the Gabtoli cattle market.

Despite the low buyer turnout, sellers were seen demanding higher prices, capitalizing on the last-minute rush. In many cases, prices were marked up by Tk 2,000 or more, but buyers, pressed for time, were still making purchases.

Market insiders say the shortage began on Thursday night (June 5) when most buyers completed their purchases. By Friday morning, it became evident that the supply had not been replenished, leading to the empty lots seen across multiple cattle markets.

“Many animals were sold last night. Traders are now holding on to what little they have, hoping to make higher profits,” said a livestock trader.

This shortage comes despite earlier assurances from authorities and local officials that there was an adequate supply of sacrificial animals in the country. The situation has raised questions about distribution and market management, especially during peak demand hours.

With just hours left before Eid-ul-Azha, many residents of Dhaka continue to scramble for a suitable sacrificial animal, caught between dwindling options and inflated prices.

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