The Islamabad district administration has finalized plans to open six official cattle markets across the federal capital in preparation for Eid-ul-Azha. These markets are set to become operational starting May 10, aiming to provide organized venues for traders and buyers while addressing traffic congestion and sanitation challenges during the festive period.
Notably, the approved locations for these cattle markets include I-12, Barakahu, Sangjhani, Japan Road, Lehtrar Road, and an area near the Sultana Foundation. The authorities are introducing these designated trading zones to facilitate the smooth sale and purchase of sacrificial animals and to discourage illegal roadside trading activities scattered throughout the city.
In a significant development, the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad has instructed all relevant departments to finalize arrangements concerning parking, cleanliness, security, and other public amenities before the markets open. Monitoring teams will be active throughout the Eid season to ensure efficient operations and uninterrupted services for both visitors and traders.
The administration has also issued a strict warning to market contractors and management teams against charging fees beyond the government-approved rates. Any complaints related to overcharging or mismanagement will be promptly addressed to protect the interests of traders and buyers alike.
To enhance supervision, a magistrate will be stationed at each cattle market around the clock. These magistrates will oversee fee collection, sanitation standards, enforcement of official guidelines, and will handle on-site complaints effectively.
Meanwhile, coordination with Islamabad Traffic Police has resulted in a comprehensive traffic management plan for the roads surrounding the markets. Special traffic arrangements will be implemented during peak days leading up to Eid-ul-Azha to maintain smooth vehicle flow and reduce congestion.
Authorities have also imposed a strict prohibition on the sale and purchase of sacrificial animals outside the officially designated cattle markets. Enforcement actions will be taken against unauthorized trading points operating in various parts of the city.
Officials believe that confining animal trading to these approved markets will significantly enhance public convenience, sanitation, traffic control, and security during the Eid festivities. The administration has urged citizens, traders, and transporters to cooperate fully by utilizing only the authorized cattle markets for their animal trading activities.
