1.24cr sacrificial animals ready for Eid-ul-Adha: Adviser Farida
A surplus of approximately 2,068,135 animals is also expected
Over 1.24 crore sacrificial animals will be available for Eid-ul-Adha this year, Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter said today (4 May).
Citing data from the Department of Livestock Services, the adviser said a total of 12,447,337 animals are ready for sacrifice, including 5,602,905 cows and buffaloes, 6,838,920 goats and sheep, and 5,512 other animals, reads a ministry press release.
Speaking at a press briefing at the ministry's conference room, Farida informed that surplus of approximately 2,068,135 animals is also expected this year. "There is absolutely no need to import sacrificial animals."
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Farida further said, "Steps have been taken to ensure that cattle prices remain stable and that extortion does not disrupt the market during the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha."
Seeking public support to maintain a stable market, the adviser said, "We want to celebrate the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha with joy and order. Your cooperation is vital to prevent any market instability."
The government has already held inter-ministerial meetings and is confident in addressing any potential issues that might arise, she added.
Regarding the slaughter process, Farida Akhter said a total of 36,577 butchers – including 15,369 professionals and 21,208 non-professionals – have been trained in scientific methods of slaughtering and skinning animals to ensure hygienic and humane practices, reports UNB.
She also said that as per the decisions taken in today's inter-ministerial meeting, strict actions will be taken to prevent the illegal entry of cattle in border districts.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), police, Coast Guard, district administration, and district livestock offices, will work in coordination to stop cross-border smuggling.
"From today, illegal cattle entry will be completely prohibited and violators will face strict legal action," the adviser warned.
To ease cattle transportation, special livestock trains will be operated from northern regions to Dhaka and Chattogram. In addition, veterinary services will be deployed across the capital's 19 cattle markets, with 20 medical teams and two specialist teams on standby, read the release.
The transportation of animals via rail and waterways must comply with the Animal Welfare Act, 2019.
On waste management at cattle markets, she said the Local Government Division and city corporations will work together to ensure cleanliness and proper disposal of animal waste.
Necessary guidelines will also be issued to encourage hygienic and mechanised slaughtering.
