Preparations for Eid-ul-Azha have commenced with great enthusiasm across Cox’s Bazar district. Trade of sacrificial animals has begun in 94 local markets, and the Livestock Department has assured that there will be no shortage of Qurbani animals this year.
Local farmers have stockpiled more animals than the anticipated demand.
However, they have expressed concerns over the unchecked smuggling of cattle and buffaloes from Myanmar and India, which threatens their investments.
Farmers are urging the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), police, and other authorities to strengthen security along the Myanmar and Indian borders to curb illegal animal trafficking.
Dr. A.M. Khalekuzzaman, Cox’s Bazar District Livestock Officer, reported that the demand for Qurbani animals this year is approximately 162,000, while the current stock stands at about 170,000 animals—exceeding demand by nearly 9,500.
Among the livestock, there are 109,159 cattle, including 65,091 bulls, 30,060 oxen, 11,008 cows, and 5,913 buffaloes.
Moreover, the stock includes 41,750 goats and 13,054 sheep. Cox’s Bazar district currently has 8,784 registered farms, with numerous temporary farms also operating to meet the festive demand.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Collected
