Rafiullah Mandokhail

ZHOB: Eid-ul-Azha is fast approaching, but the animal trade is quite slow and fails to attract the intending buyers here in bordering district Zhob. A large number of animals are up for sale in the biggest cattle market near Tablighi mosque on Quetta Road.

The unscrupulous traders have jacked up prices of sacrificial animals. Buyers seem frustrated roaming in the cattle markets due to irrational demands of traders. The high prices are keeping the buyers away from purchasing animals. Amid sky-high prices, sacrifice is merely a dream for many salaried and those living hand to mouth this year. It would be difficult for a common man to perform religious obligation.

The trend of the joint sacrifices is gaining momentum as a majority of people is not able to sacrifice animals individually to commemorate Hazrat Ibrahim’s decision for Allah’s pleasure.

Local traders said that the prices of animals have been increased as a result of triggering increase in transportation charges.

However, customers believe that the traders were taking advantage of the season and looting people with both hands.

Muhammad Shafiq a government employee said that the rates of the animals were beyond the reach of common man, especially for the salaried class.

“The government leaves public in the lurch every year. The district administration is failed to control the prices.” He added.

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Nazar Muhammad Khetran has directed the administration to ensure strict vigilance on all the exit points to control cattle smuggling. He has also warned the traders that zero tolerance would be shown towards those found fleecing the customers.