Ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, cattle markets across Dhaka have started to draw increasing numbers of buyers and sellers. Farmers and traders from districts including Kushtia, Chuadanga, Pabna, Natore, Sirajganj, and Rajshahi have brought truckloads of cattle to the city. However, sellers report that rising costs of animal feed, transport, and related expenses may push cattle prices up by 15 to 20 percent compared to last year. At the Uttara Diabari market, farmers complained about poor management, including water shortages, lack of sheds, and muddy conditions.

Some traders said they had to buy sand at their own expense to keep cattle dry and pay extra for better spots or shed space. Allegations also surfaced that pickup drivers were being charged up to 5,000 taka for entry stickers. The market leaseholder claimed that most issues were being resolved. Feed prices have nearly doubled in some cases, and transport costs have risen by several thousand taka per truck. Meanwhile, the Gabtoli market remains half full, with moderate-priced cattle attracting the most attention.

Authorities said law enforcement is on alert to prevent extortion, and temporary bank booths have been set up to ease transactions. Markets are expected to reach full activity by Monday.