Pakistan, June 2 -- As Eidul Adha draws near, prices of sacrificial animals have soared by 50 to 70% in major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Buyers are expressing frustration as even small animals now cost double compared to last year, with little to no government regulation in place to control pricing.

Last year, a small heifer could be bought for under Rs100,000. This year, even low-weight ones are being sold for over Rs200,000. Middle-income families are finding it increasingly difficult to participate in this religious tradition due to rising costs.

Traders blame the price hike on rising expenses for animal feed, transportation, and market logistics. They say they also face added costs such as fuel, local taxes, lightin...