Photo: BSS

BARGUNA, May 23, 2026 (BSS) - Cattle markets across the coastal district of Barguna have started bustling with activity ahead of the holy Eid-ul-Azha as sacrificial animals from different parts of the country continue arriving at local haats. 

The cattle markets in Sadar, Patharghata, Amtali, Betagi and Taltali upazilas are already witnessing a steady influx of buyers and traders.  

Medium and large-sized cattle, especially local breeds of bulls, are dominating the markets this season. 

Sellers said the prices of cattle have increased slightly this year due to the rising cost of animal feed. However, many traders have brought their animals to the markets early in an effort to attract buyers. 

A visit to several cattle markets in the district showed that local traders as well as wholesalers from other regions have already started gathering at the haats. 

Crowds of buyers are increasing at Amtali cattle market, considered the largest in the district.  

Buyers were seen showing keen interest in their preferred animals, while bargaining between buyers and sellers made the markets lively. Most middle-income buyers, however, appeared to prefer medium-sized cattle.
 

Ismail Bihari, a buyer at Amtali market, said, “The price of cattle is slightly higher this year compared to last year.” 

Another buyer Imtiaz Hossain Sohel Panchayet, who visited the Chalitatali market in Barguna Sadar on Friday said, “There are plenty of animals in the market, but prices are a bit high. Compared to the number of cattle available, sales are relatively slow.”

Explaining the higher prices, seller Abdul Khalek Mia said, “The cost of cattle feed is now sky-high. Prices of khoil, bran and straw have risen significantly, increasing the overall cost of rearing livestock. Although buyers complain about the prices, we are not making much profit because of the increased expenses.”

Meanwhile, wholesaler Zulfikar, who came from Dhaka to buy cattle at the Amtali market, expressed satisfaction over the management of the market. 

“I am able to buy cattle from this market without any extortion or harassment. There is also no trouble on the roads while transporting the animals,” he added. 

Traders said although Eid is still several days away, the number of animals are arriving in the markets every day. 

Cattle and goats are being transported from rural areas of the district by trawlers, pickup vans and trucks. 

Law enforcement agencies have also taken security measures to ensure smooth operations at the cattle markets. 

Livestock farmer Imran Hasan said, “Animal feed prices are higher this year compared to last year. Ahead of Eid, special attention is also being given to animal health and care, which is increasing costs further."

According to the District Livestock Department, Barguna has a sufficient stock of sacrificial animals for Eid-ul-Azha this year. Officials expect that locally raised livestock is enough to meet the district’s demand. 

District Livestock Officer Dr. Asaduzzaman told BSS that the district had a demand for 30,182 sacrificial animals last year, while 40,809 animals have been prepared for sacrifice this year.

He also said there are a total of 46 cattle markets across the district.