Over 150,000 sacrificial animals have been sold so far at the Karachi cattle market as soaring prices in the port city have driven away folks who typically offer cows or goats during Eid al-Adha.
According to the cattle market administration, vehicle entry at the Northern Bypass market has now been made free, whereas previously an entry pass cost Rs. 3,250.
Traders have expressed concern, saying that Karachi residents have not purchased animals in expected numbers this year and that even their basic expenses have not been covered. On the other hand, citizens complain that animals worth Rs. 300,000 are being priced at Rs. 600,000. This year, there are more animals than buyers.
The market administration reports that since April 19, more than 150,000 sacrificial animals have been sold. Moreover, over 19,000 trailers and trucks have entered the cattle market during this period.
Analysts attribute the surge in prices to Pakistan’s increasing meat exports, which have contributed to the rise in livestock prices this year.
Last year, a small cow could be purchased for under PKR 100,000. Now, even underweight cows are priced at PKR 200,000 or more. At the Super Highway Cattle Market this year, the average price of a medium-sized cow or bull has surged nearly 94 percent, reaching up to PKR 330,000.
Livestock are primarily sourced from major markets in Punjab and Sindh. Mid-sized traders face additional transportation expenses when bringing animals to metropolitan areas like Karachi and Lahore. These costs include fuel, taxes, and maintenance expenses at local markets—such as lighting and security.
