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As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, sacrificial animals, particularly bulls, are beginning to arrive at Dhaka's temporary cattle markets. Traders, like Sabur Pramanik from Sirajganj, have brought their cattle early, hoping to secure favorable spots and allow the animals to acclimatize to the scorching weather. This early arrival is a strategic move, as many, like Mohammad Matiar from Kushtia, have invested heavily in raising these animals for up to two years, with some bulls valued as high as Tk 9,00,000.

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I brought seven bulls to the market yesterday [Tuesday] morning, priced between Tk 90,000 and Tk 1,20,000, hoping to secure a good spot as I failed to get one last year.

Dhaka's two city corporations are preparing to operate 27 cattle markets, including the permanent Gabtoli market, to accommodate the expected influx. Despite the ongoing construction of sheds and temporary structures, traders have started occupying spaces, with some arriving as early as Sunday and a significant increase noted from Tuesday. This early setup is crucial for the animals' well-being, as traders like Mohammad Samad emphasize the importance of gradual adaptation to the heat.

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The highest-priced bull of mine is worth Tk 9,00,000.

However, the anticipation of Eid sales is tempered by significant concerns over rising costs. Traders report a sharp increase in feed prices, with per-kilogram costs rising from Tk 55 to Tk 65, and a 50 kg sack of feed ingredients now costing nearly Tk 2,000, up from Tk 1,200-1,400. This surge in production costs, estimated by traders like Saiful Islam to be Tk 20,000-25,000 per head, leaves little room for price reductions, potentially impacting buyer affordability and market dynamics.

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Now is not the time for selling. But when customers start coming, the cattle will already be adjusted to this scorching weather.