Khulna: Online cattle markets in Khulna are experiencing a significant uptick in activity as Eid-ul-Azha, the second-largest festival for Muslims, approaches. With just three days remaining, these digital marketplaces have become a popular option for purchasing sacrificial animals.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, three online platforms, namely ‘Online Platform’, ‘Social Media Platform’, and ‘Government Online Cattle Platform’, have successfully sold at least 1,387 animals worth Tk 9.09 crore in the city as of Monday. This includes 714 cattle sold for Tk 7.96 crore, 3 buffaloes for Tk 3.6 lakh, 657 goats for Tk 1.07 crore, and 13 sheep for Tk 2.58 lakh.
The initiative, started by the Khulna Divisional Administration in cooperation with the Divisional Livestock Service (DoLS), aims to reduce physical market crowds. It includes a mobile app and a website (qurbanihatkhulna.com/) for the ‘Government Online Cattle Platform’, while the ‘Online Platform’ and ‘Social Media Platform’ were launched on May 28.
Dr. Nurullah Md Ahsan, Director of DoLs in Khulna Division, expressed satisfaction with the customer response, noting that the initiative could be a significant success. Union Online Center plays a crucial role in registering animals, complete with details like age, weight, and seller contact information. A total of 5,968 animals have been registered for sale online.
Officials from the Khulna Divisional Commissioner Office highlighted the role of government officials in assisting farmers with registrations. Animals from 10 districts in the division are listed on the ‘Online Platforms’, with district and upazila administrations actively supporting the process.
Sharif Asif Rahman from the Khulna City Corporation (KCC) stated that while their online service hasn’t started this year, physical purchases are possible at the Zoraget cattle market, where buyers can use ATM cards or deposit cash.
Ahsanuzzaman Russel, a city banker, and Chowdhury Masud Mahmud, a government employee, are among those who have embraced online purchases. Digital platforms provide a convenient, hassle-free buying experience, with many buyers opting for pre-booking and advance payments.
Farm owners like Sayed Wahid Ahmed and Md Nazrul Islam report increased online sales due to trust and convenience. Despite high prices, the supply of sacrificial animals is at a record high, with buyers favoring healthy, locally reared cattle over imported ones.
Bidhan Chandra Ghosh from Khulna DoLs announced the formation of 155 veterinary medical teams across 169 markets to ensure animal health. First-aid centers and screening machines for counterfeit notes are also in place.
This year, the division has prepared 14.35 lakh sacrificial animals against a demand of 10.47 lakh.