Dhaka's cattle markets take shape as Eid-ul-Adha nears

Temporary cattle markets have begun taking shape across Dhaka as preparations for Eid-ul-Azha gather pace.

With traders arriving from across the country and designated haats filling up swiftly, the city is entering its annual phase of spirited livestock trade, complete with rising prices, surging crowds and makeshift pens sprawling into the skyline.

The Qurbani haats, as they are locally known, appear each year ahead of Eid-ul-Azha to cater to the seasonal demand for sacrificial animals.

Under the supervision of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), the official markets are typically set up two to three weeks before Eid.

This year, activity began in the final week of May, as traders from rural districts started arriving with cattle—mainly cows, goats, and buffaloes—while a limited number of animals have come from neighbouring India and Nepal due to stricter cross-border regulations.

In 2025, city authorities have allocated 18 official cattle markets across Dhaka.

These include Gabtoli—the city's only permanent haat—as well as temporary sites such as Sadeque Hossain Khoka Playground, Dholaikhal, Basila, Kamrangirchar, Eastern Housing, Mirpur, and Uttara Sector 15.

Alongside these, smaller unauthorised haats have started forming in some localities.

A visit to several of these sites reveals rapid development. Most of the bamboo structures are already in place, while sellers and agro farm owners have marked their spaces with signboards.

The city's landscape is changing fast, with livestock-laden pickup trucks navigating busy streets and tarpaulin roofs emerging above makeshift pens.

Jamal Hossain, a resident of Mirpur, shared his daily encounter with the Gabtoli haat, "I pass by Gabtoli every day on my way to work. The market is already packed, though it's still technically 'unofficial.' Prices are sky-high and negotiations are tough."

A cattle trader from Pabna highlighted the cost challenges this year.

"Transport costs have increased this year. Fuel prices and tolls make it difficult for us to offer lower rates. Buyers expect miracles, but we've invested a lot," he said.

At the Dania College Open Market, Abbas Ali from Faridpur stood beside his six oxen and described the mood, "We are ready to sell. But selling in the beginning phase is rare. People are just roaming and discussing about the price."

He also pointed to rising local-level cattle prices, citing the cost of feed and transport.

Preparation and Management

City corporations have begun laying essential infrastructure at haat sites to ensure smooth operations. Efforts include clean water supply, waste management systems, mobile veterinary clinics, CCTV surveillance, and dedicated security patrols.

Digital payment options are also being promoted to deter fraud and theft.

Online cattle-selling platforms have grown in popularity, offering home delivery services and digital transactions to those preferring to avoid the crowded markets.

Biggest cattle market in the southwest region running without lease

Still, several challenges remain. Traffic congestion near haat areas is increasing. Sanitation concerns are rising with the growing volume of livestock waste.

The spread of illegal and unregulated markets is complicating oversight, while price volatility continues due to demand shifts and supply chain disruptions.

Yet the spirit of Qurbani appears undimmed. The cattle markets are now in full swing, signalling the beginning of Dhaka's busiest trading season.

Both buyers and sellers are hopeful for a safe and successful period, blending tradition with the convenience of modern platforms.

Extended Banking Hours to Support Transactions

To facilitate financial activities during the Qurbani rush, Bangladesh Bank has directed bank branches located near haats in Dhaka and Chattogram to remain open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, starting 3 June and continuing until the eve of Eid.

Temporary banking booths are also being set up at market locations to provide cash deposit, withdrawal, and account opening services.

Weather Concerns Ahead

Early June forecasts suggest rainfall, prompting city authorities to accelerate the installation of drainage systems at haat sites. Still, public confidence remains hesitant.

Kamrul, a cattle transporter from Kushtia, voiced his worry with a touch of humour, "If it rains heavily before Eid, we'll have a mud festival in the markets—no way to sell or buy animals in peace."

Even so, the city marches ahead with determination. The return of the haats brings with it not only a burst of commerce but also a reminder of faith, resilience and community as Dhaka prepares for the sacred days ahead.