Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, May 30: While the holy festival—Eid-ul-Azha is all set to be celebrated on July 07, Srinagar’s historic Eidgah has once again turned into a bustling mandi, as dozens of traders have set up temporary stalls offering goats and sheep for sacrifice, signalling the beginning of the festive season in the Valley.
The once-empty field was filled with the herd of goats and the calls of bargain-seeking customers again in Srinagar.
“Eidgah is the heart of the animal trade in Srinagar. Every year, we bring in our livestock hoping for good business. This time, we have also come here and hopes are high for a good business this year too,” said Abdul Majeed, a trader who was among dozens of traders from different parts of the valley, who have set up temporary sheds for selling animals.
Speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the traders say the animals have been sourced from various parts, including from South and North Kashmir and also from other parts of the valley.
The prices, however, remain different, ranging from Rs 350 to 400 per kilogram depending on the breed, weight, and size.
A local from Habba Kadal, Srinagar, who came to buy sacrificial animals, told KNO the animals look healthy but rates are steep and different. “I am just surveying the prices today. I will come back tomorrow or maybe a day after and buy the animal of my choice,” he said.
Notably, some buyers also pointed out the lack of clear rate regulation, saying every seller quotes a different price. “There is no standard. Authorities should at least put rate lists,” said Irfan Shah, another visitor.
Moreover, with the rush remaining thin in the initial days, sellers are hopeful the rush is all set to increase and peak in the last two to three days.
“The real crowd shows up in the last three days,” said Ghulam Nabi, a regular trader, adding they are just setting the scene now. The coming week will decide everything.”—(KNO)
