Bakrid: Goat dealers gloat

With Bakrid festival round the corner, the shepherds are all set to make a good profit, selling their Bannur, Jamuna Pari and Australian cross breed at thrice the actual price.

Over one lakh goats have already been booked by various mutton dealers in and around Bangalore.

Though the prices of these animals have gone over the roof, the spirit of celebration has not deterred people from buying.

For instance, the Bannur breed, now being sold at Rs 15,000, normally goes for Rs 5,000.

Similarly, the Australian cross breed which costs Rs  15,000 is now being sold for Rs 35,000.

Earlier, there was limited choice as one had to buy either at Chamrajpet or Tannery Road grounds but now the Bakri mela has spread across the city.

 “Places like TV tower, Nagwara, Goripalaya, Bismillah Nagar and Mysore Road display a variety of breeds.

Farmers from Bannur, Mandya, Hoskote and other places including Hindupur, camp with their breed from October second week.

We have about 2000 bookings with a lakh goat arrival,” said Iqbal Ahmed Qureshi, Secretary, Karnataka Mutton Merchant Association.

Dr Parvez Ahmed Piran, Joint Director,BBMP Animal Husbandary Department says they have kept the Corporation slaughter houses in the loop to ensure enough meat supply.

The garbage vehicles too will be on special drive from October 26 to 29.

“I have directed my team of 12 veterinarians and 13 inspectors to inspect and ensure that there is no dumping of animal waste.

 In case of camel slaughter, they will have to coordinate with the police.” The police are on alert with rounding up of anti-social elements to ensure peaceful celebrations.

 All the DCPs will personally visit each Idgah Maidan in the city.

“Fifty platoons comprising 25 from KSRP and Armed Reserve Forces will be deployed,” said T Sunil Kumar, Additional Commissioner of Police (Law and Order).