A severe slump has hit the sacrificial animal hide market in Taraganj upazila of Rangpur, where thousands of unsold hides now lie abandoned along roadsides due to the absence of fair prices. The Kursha market, once bustling during Eid, has turned stagnant amid a shortage of buyers, leaving seasonal traders, farmers, and small sellers facing heavy losses.

Local traders report that good-quality cowhides are selling for only 300 to 350 taka, while lower-quality or damaged hides fetch between 100 and 150 taka. Compared with last year, prices have dropped sharply, creating a major imbalance between buyers and sellers. Across five unions of Taraganj, hides have been left piled up in courtyards, mosque grounds, and near shops, raising environmental and health concerns.

Traders expressed frustration, saying they had purchased hides with high expectations but now face losses even at purchase prices. Many fear that if the situation continues, sustaining their businesses will become increasingly difficult.