With Eidul Azha fast approaching, the Islamabad district administration has announced strict measures to regulate the sale of sacrificial animals. All unauthorized cattle markets will be shut down, while five official markets will be established across the capital under clearly defined rules.
According to a spokesperson for the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), a comprehensive plan is now in place to manage the cattle trade in an organized manner. The district administration has already launched a crackdown on illegal animal sale points that have appeared in various locations.
Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon confirmed that five authorized cattle markets will be set up in Sangjhani, Sector I-15, Bhara Kahu, Lehtrar Road, and along the Islamabad Expressway. Tender notices for these markets have been issued, and they will operate from the 1st to the 13th of Zilhajj. Buying or selling animals outside these dates or locations will not be permitted.
To enforce these regulations, monitoring teams have been formed and are already taking action against unauthorized vendors. Officials noted that illegal setups often result in poor sanitation and public inconvenience. In contrast, the designated markets will be equipped with essential services such as clean water, electricity, and organized entry and exit points. Veterinary teams will also be on-site to examine animals for health concerns.
The deputy commissioner emphasized that the primary aim is to create a safe, controlled environment for both buyers and sellers. Coordination efforts are underway with key departments, including the Metropolitan Corporation, police, and health services, to ensure seamless operations at the approved markets.
The administration has urged the public to support the initiative by avoiding purchases from unapproved vendors. Citizens are encouraged to report illegal cattle markets via a dedicated helpline, with swift action promised in response to complaints.
