Staff Reporter :
For the first time, the government will introduce a special train service to transport sacrificial animals from North Bengal to Chattogram via Dhaka ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter announced today.
Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock at the Bangladesh Secretariat, Adviser Farida Akhter said the initiative is aimed at ensuring the smooth and safe movement of livestock, particularly from regions with high supply to areas with high demand.
“All must comply with the Animal Welfare Act, 2019 when transporting animals by train or waterways,” she said, stressing the importance of humane and legal treatment of animals during transit.
Highlighting the country’s self-sufficiency in livestock production, the adviser said Bangladesh will not need to import animals this year. “We currently have a surplus of 20.68 lakh animals, which is more than enough to meet domestic demand,” she added.
According to ministry estimates, around 12.4 million animals will be available for sacrifice this year, including 5.6 million cattle and buffalo, 6.8 million goats and sheep, and over 5,500 animals of other species. With demand projections in place, about 2.07 million animals are expected to remain in surplus. To ensure the quality and safety of the animals, the government is training farmers against the use of harmful substances such as steroids and hormones for animal fattening. Over 53,263 farms have been inspected, and awareness campaigns have been carried out to educate workers about the dangers of chemical use.
Mobile courts, jointly operated by district administrations and livestock offices, will continue monitoring farms and markets to enforce compliance with health and safety regulations.
The adviser also announced that measures will be taken to prevent the hijacking of livestock-laden transport trucks. Law enforcement agencies including the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), police, district administrations, and livestock officers will work in coordination to ensure secure transportation.
Additionally, a central control room at the Department of Livestock Services will remain active, and a dedicated hotline (16358) will be available to respond to any complaints or issues related to animal transport.
The government’s initiative aims to streamline the sacrificial animal supply chain while upholding animal welfare and public safety during the upcoming Eid festival.
