As Eidul Azha draws near, Lahore’s cattle markets are bustling but buyers are feeling the pinch from soaring prices of sacrificial animals. At Shahpur Kanjran, the city’s largest market, goat prices have nearly doubled compared to last year, starting from eighty thousand rupees and climbing much higher depending on breed and size. Larger animals such as cows and bulls now sell for between two hundred thousand and five hundred thousand rupees, with premium livestock commanding prices over one million.
Many buyers worry the religious tradition is being overtaken by profit motives, calling for government action to regulate prices and ease the burden on the middle class. Meanwhile, traders explain the steep price hikes are driven by rising fuel and transportation costs, as well as additional operational expenses.
Despite the heavy crowds, some sellers report slower sales, with buyers waiting for last-minute bargains. In response, Lahore’s Division Commissioner Zaid bin Maqsood has inspected the markets to ensure proper facilities and crack down on illegal cattle enclosures. Veterinary and medical services have also been set up to safeguard animal health during the festival.