Islamabad all set to host sacrificial animals
As the capital gears up for the upcoming sacrificial season, one thing is certain: whether you’re buying a goat or a bull, you might want to check your bank app before you check the animal’s teeth.
In a development that might leave both traders and tech startups equally intrigued, Islamabad’s sacrificial animal markets are stepping into the digital age — where wallets may stay home, but goats still come with attitude.
According to an official statement issued here Tuesday temporary cattle markets in the federal capital have been auctioned for a record-breaking PKR 349.5 million, marking not just a financial milestone but also a shift toward a cashless system in traditional livestock trading.
The prized spot in Sector I-12 led the herd, fetching a staggering PKR 200.1 million, while Sangjani followed with PKR 62.5 million. Other notable markets included Zia Mosque at PKR 50 million and Sultana Foundation at PKR 25 million. Meanwhile, the more “budget-friendly” options on Japan Road and in Bhara Kahu went for PKR 6.2 million and PKR 6.1 million, respectively.
Altogether, the six markets have collectively raised PKR 349.5 million — a jump of nearly 120 percent compared to last year. Officials attribute this surge to a transparent, merit-based auction process that attracted a competitive pool of 104 bidders.
But the real headline-grabber isn’t just the money — it’s the method. Authorities have announced that all temporary cattle markets will operate on a cashless system this year. Yes, that means QR codes might soon hang next to prize bulls, and buyers could be negotiating prices with one hand while holding their phones in the other.
Officials say the move is aimed at enhancing transparency and convenience, although some seasoned traders may still trust a firm handshake over a digital receipt — at least for now.
Meanwhile, to keep things orderly, the Directorate of Municipal Administration (DMA) has deployed teams across the city to monitor and prevent illegal cattle markets. A strict zero-tolerance policy has been enforced under the direction of Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf.
