Bakrid (Eid-ul-Adha) will be celebrated on Thursday, and this means that there is a high demand for sheep and goats. Muslims who want to participate in the annual ritual sacrifice are finding that they have to pay more compared to previous years, as the prices of animals have gone up. Traders have set up stalls in various areas of the city and are hopeful that they will be able to sell their stock before the festival. The traders are selling a pair of sheep for Rs 28,000 to Rs 30,000, which is Rs 8,000 more than last year’s price.
There are different factors contributing to the rise in prices and low supply of animals. Some traders mention the increase in transportation costs as well as stricter documentation requirements by the authorities. To bring animals to the city, traders have to obtain certificates and receipts. After an examination by the authorities, certificates of fitness to be slaughtered or fit to travel are issued.
The animals come from local markets in various districts and states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Muslim clerics and public representatives have appealed to their community members to dispose of animal viscera properly to keep the streets clean. The police department has installed check-posts at major junctions to prevent the transportation of prohibited animals into the city. Traders have been asked to provide valid documents for transporting livestock.
In preparation for Eid, measures have been taken to accommodate worshippers in case of rain during the prayers. Tents have been installed at Eidgahs to provide shelter during inclement weather.
