RAWALPINDI:

With just two weeks left until the Islamic month of Zilhajj, preparations for sacrificial cattle markets in Rawalpindi district remain stalled.

None of the 12 officially designated markets has begun operations. Amid ongoing India-Pakistan military tensions, informal cattle sellers who typically roam neighbourhoods have also disappeared from the scene.

Contract holders for the livestock markets warn that if the current situation continues for another week, the markets may remain deserted, driving up prices of sacrificial animals significantly.

In areas such as Bhatha Chowk, Adiala Road, Chakri, Rawat, the High Court rear area, Ghazni Road, and Channi Pul across all six tehsils, no enclosures or infrastructure for animals have yet been set up. Contractors who secured expensive tenders for these markets now fear massive financial losses, potentially running into millions.

According to contractors, no traders have come forward to book stalls or animal enclosures.

Traders usually arrive from cities including Sargodha, Bhakkar, Sialkot, Jhang, Multan, Faisalabad, Azad Kashmir, Gujranwala, Bahawalpur, Peshawar, and Mardan – but none have appeared this year.

Ahmed Noor Khan, a trader who annually brings livestock from Attock and Fateh Jang to Bhatha Chowk market, said he currently has 100 small and 66 large animals ready but is holding back due to the unstable security situation.

“Transporting animals in such conditions is risky. If things don’t improve within a week, it will be very difficult and prices will rise,” he said.

Trader Saeen Majeed echoed the uncertainty, saying they are monitoring the situation before proceeding.

Meanwhile, trader Faisal Abbasi said they have shifted to online sales due to the current circumstances.

“We have uploaded videos of the animals on social media. Customers can choose an animal, request a detailed video, and even inspect it in person before booking through Easypaisa or JazzCash,” he explained.

With Pakistan and India agreeing to a full and immediate ceasefire, traders may begin their trade activities.