The Punjab Local Government Minister, Zeeshan Rafique, has announced that 20 model cattle markets are being set up in various cities across the region.

Additionally, similar markets will also be established along the route of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

During his visit to the Punjab Cattle Market Management and Development Company (PCMMDC) on Friday Rafique disclosed that the buying and selling of cattle is expected to pick up momentum leading up to the Eid-ul-Azha festival.

He emphasized that all possible facilities should be provided to the traders and buyers in these sacrificial animal markets.

Rafique also stated that cattle markets worth Rs 10 billion have been auctioned so far this year under the management of the Cattle Market Management Company.

However, he noted that there is still significant room for increasing the revenue generated from these markets.

“Establishment of the e-cattle market was an important project of the Punjab government and payment on delivery facility was provided for online purchases”, he added.

Rafique welcomed the launch of the 1233 helpline, which provides information for online shopping, expressing satisfaction that no cases of lumpy skin disease have been reported in Punjab’s cattle markets this year.

However, Rafique emphasized that there should be no compromise on cleanliness in the cattle markets, and provision of cool water must be ensured during the current hot weather.

The minister also showed determination to crack down on illegal cattle markets. He stated that immediate action would be taken on any complaints of overcharging in the authorized markets.

He stated that the government-supervised cattle markets are being closely monitored through the use of drones and CCTV cameras. He noted that this has significantly reduced the number of complaints related to theft and vandalism in these markets.

Rafique further directed the officials present to review the utilization of animal waste/excreta collected from the cattle markets. He suggested linking the “Green Waste” program with the “Suthra Punjab” program to ensure the provision of quality sanitation facilities in these market spaces.

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