To prepare for Eid-ul-Azha celebrations, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has issued a notification for the set-up of five official animal sacrificial markets (cattle markets) in the federal capital.
This is part of the ICT’s initiatives to manage public safety, cleanliness, and order during fesand before Eid, while also smoothly managing both the sale and purchase of sacrificial animals.
List of Designated Locations Across
In an official announcement, also covered by propakistani.pk, on May 5, 2025, Sangjani, I-15, Bhara Kahu, Lehtrar Road, and Islamabad Expressway were assigned as the designated areas for the five officially authorized cattle markets. These are set to open from the 1st to the 13th of Zilhajj.
As planned, these locations are meant to cater to other parts of the city, thus taking care of public nuisance and traffic jams by pre-fixing spots.
Facilities and Veterinary Support at Each Market
All the cattle markets will have basic infrastructure facilities provided by ICT in partnership with CDA and MCI, including clean drinking water, sanitation services, electricity, temporary cattle market sheds, and allocated parking spaces. In addition to these, every station will have veterinary crews assigned to the animals for proper examination and treatment.
Strict Regulations Against Unauthorized Markets
Different statements, also quoted by Tribune.com.pk, were made by officials to justify the decision taken:
“The buying and selling of sacrificial animals should be done only at the officially authorized markets. The setup of Unauthorized markets or street-side animal vending is not allowed at all. Enforcement teams shall take necessary action against such offenders,” the statement read.
Special Traffic Plans and Security Measures
The Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has been asked to control the traffic around the markets and ease movement for other road users. There will be special routes for the loading and unloading of the animals, too.
As part of the administration’s plan, they intend to post law enforcement and municipality workers at each of the markets to ensure the restrictions are followed and keep watch over security and order.
Awareness Campaigns for Buyers and Sellers
Buyers and sellers have been asked to maintain hygiene by not overcrowding, and for animals, they should be vaccinated on time. Campaigns will be held for the general public to inform them of safe animal handling for citizens and for the designated marketplaces.
Final Preparations Before the Festive Rush
With Eid-ul-Azha expected to fall in mid-June 2025, the administration is working against the clock to ensure all logistical arrangements are in place before the markets open. The CDA has also initiated a cleanliness drive in and around the market areas to ensure hygienic conditions are maintained throughout the festival period.
The ICT administration has urged the public to cooperate with authorities and strictly follow the rules to ensure a smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-ul-Azha experience.