Sylhet cattle market gaining momentum

Only one day remain until the holy Eid-ul-Azha. As Eid approaches, cattle markets in expatriate-dominated Sylhet are becoming increasingly busy. While the number of animals has increased at the city’s only permanent cattle market, Kazirbazar, and in five temporary markets approved by the City Corporation, the presence of buyers remains comparatively low.

As a result, wholesalers and traders are waiting in anticipation of higher sales in the final days.
On Monday, a visit to Kazirbazar, the city’s main cattle market, showed wholesalers displaying small and large cattle brought from different parts of the country, along with goats and sheep.

Although people were seen moving in and out of the market, many left after inspecting the animals.

However, traders expect sales to increase as Eid approaches.

According to Sylhet City Corporation sources, permission has been granted for five temporary cattle markets in the city on the occasion of Eid. These are the field adjacent to South Surma Central Truck Terminal, the new Tukerbazar Temukhi area, the field beside Abdul Latif Primary School in Mirapara, Shahparan Bazar area, and the asphalt field in Tetli. The markets have been operating since May 20, with animal arrivals underway, although sales have yet to pick up.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Sylhet Metropolitan Police (Media) Mohammad Manjurul Alam said, “We have received a list of 15 markets, both permanent and temporary, under the City Corporation and Sadar Upazila. Adequate police have been deployed at each market. Plainclothes detectives are also working.”

In addition, temporary cattle markets are also being prepared in Pirerbazar and Islamganj Bazar, approved by the Sadar Upazila administration.

At Kazirbazar market, each wholesaler has brought 10 to 30 cattle, but sales remain low for most sellers.

Sylhet City Corporation Chief Revenue Officer Bishwajit Deb said, “No illegal market will be allowed to operate outside the five markets approved by the City Corporation. The administration is taking a strict stance on this issue.”

Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Md. Sarwar Alam said a total of 60 temporary cattle markets have been leased in the district this year. The district administration and police will jointly conduct drives to prevent illegal markets.