Asia’s largest cattle market, located on the Northern Bypass, Karachi, witnessed a massive influx of buyers on Saturday as residents rushed to purchase sacrificial animals ahead of Eidul Adha.
With Sunday being a public holiday, an even larger crowd is expected, further intensifying the already bustling market atmosphere.
Thousands of animals are being sold and transported daily to various parts of the city as the festival draws near. The market has become a hub of activity, with families arriving in droves to select their Qurbani animals.
Buyers have praised the market management for its improved facilities and well-organized setup this year. Traders, too, have expressed satisfaction with the arrangements, citing smooth operations and a better overall experience compared to previous years.
Functional since April 19, the market has witnessed large-scale buying and selling, with livestock continuously arriving on trucks and trailers from various parts of the country.
Administrator Shahab Ali stated that the market is seeing high demand for a variety of breeds, including beautifully adorned camels from Lari, Koh-e-Mari, Thar, Cholistan, and others.
Similarly, goats of Gulabi(pink), Kamori, Sindhi, Tapri, Rajanpuri, and Nachi(Dancing) breeds are gaining popularity among buyers.
Among sheep, Kajla, Pahari, and Kharay Dumba from Larkana are prominently featured, while cattle varieties include Australian bulls, Sahiwal, Cholistani, Sibi, Sindhi Oblique, Chena, Brahman, and Salagar breeds.
The market offers animals starting as low as PKR 100,000, making it accessible to buyers with varied budgets.
Each livestock block is provided 30 liters of free water daily, and traders benefit from 24/7 electricity, water, and security facilities enabled by entry fees.
Administrator Faisal also highlighted the use of heavy-duty generators to ensure uninterrupted electricity, especially during the extreme summer heat.
The visitors are undeterred by the weather, with families actively shopping for their sacrificial animals.
Administrator Shahab added that the market features on-site ATMs and mobile banking services for convenience. Police and law enforcement personnel are stationed at key access points, including the 4K Chowrangi to Go Petrol Pump and Gulshan-e-Maymar routes, ensuring a secure environment.
