Photo: BSS

PATUAKHALI, May 26, 2026 (BSS) - Sacrificial animal markets across Patuakhali have come alive ahead of the holy Eid-ul-Azha, with a surge of buyers and sellers creating a festive atmosphere throughout the district.
 
Markets in several upazilas, including Baufal, Dumki, Galachipa, Kalapara, Mirzaganj, Dashmina and Sadar, are witnessing heavy crowds as farmers and traders bring cows, buffaloes, goats and sheep for sale. 
 
Buyers have been visiting markets from morning until late at night in search of suitable sacrificial animals.
 
A visit to different markets on Tuesday showed growing enthusiasm among buyers, particularly for large-sized cows. Alongside local breeds, improved breeds of cattle have also been displayed for sale.
 
Farmers expressed optimism over receiving fair prices for the animals they raised throughout the year. Although cattle supply is higher this year compared to previous years, demand has also remained strong.

However, livestock farmers said that rising feed prices have significantly increased production costs.
 
Farmer Abdul Karim, 45, from Baufal said he had spent nearly a year raising three cows and hoped to make a reasonable profit after covering expenses for food and care.
 
Meanwhile, buyers are carefully comparing prices before making purchases. Many are visiting multiple markets with family members or friends to find quality animals at affordable rates.
 
Keramat Ali, 55, a buyer from Patuakhali Sadar upazila, said the increased supply of cattle this year has helped stabilize prices, allowing buyers to negotiate better deals. 

The Department of Livestock Services has taken measures to ensure a healthy trading environment in the markets. Veterinary medical teams have been deployed to conduct health check-ups and identify sick animals.
 
According to the District Livestock Department, the district has sufficient sacrificial animals to meet local demand, with the possibility of supplying livestock to other districts as well.
 
District Livestock Officer Dr. Habibur Rahman said the district has 70 permanent livestock markets and 76 temporary markets ahead of Eid.
 
“The Livestock Department is monitoring every market round the clock. Medical teams are working to ensure animal health and maintain a safe environment,” he said.
 
He added that security measures have been strengthened in coordination with law enforcement agencies and the district administration to prevent any untoward incidents during the Eid season.
 
Besides livestock trading, temporary shops and small businesses surrounding the markets have also flourished. Traders dealing in animal feed, ropes, bamboo, knives and transportation services are experiencing increased business activity, contributing to a vibrant rural economy across the district.
 
As Eid-ul-Azha draws nearer, cattle markets in Patuakhali are becoming increasingly crowded, turning the district’s marketplaces into lively centers of commerce and festive spirit.