The National Highway and Motorway Police (NHMP) has imposed a ban on the entry of vehicles loaded with sacrificial animals on motorways, according to an official statement released on Sunday.
“Overloaded, unfit, and improperly loaded vehicles often lead to traffic congestion and serious road accidents,” the statement said.
It added that such vehicles would be diverted to alternative routes.
The statement said that several vehicles transporting animals had been involved in “serious accidents” in the past, resulting in significant loss of life and property.
“Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police have also been requested to establish check posts near motorway entry points and cattle markets to ensure the effective implementation of these measures,” it said.
The statement said the initiative had been taken to “ensure the safety, security, and convenience of commuters travelling on motorways during the Eidul Azha season”.
The NHMP’s decision has come as the Reut-i-Hilal Committee is set to meet today for sighting the Zilhaj moon.
Earlier this week, the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission forecast that Eidul Azha was expected to fall on May 27.
Islamabad sets Rs 4,000 and Rs 3,000 cattle market fees
The district administration of Islamabad has enforced fixed entry fees at all cattle markets ahead of Eidul Azha, setting the rate at Rs 4,000 for large animals and Rs 3,000 for small animals.
Officials said strict action is being taken against anyone charging traders more than the approved amount, while one person has already been arrested for overcharging a livestock seller.
According to the district administration, the official market fee for large animals, including camels, cows and bulls, has been fixed at Rs 4,000 per animal. For small animals, including goats and sheep, the fee has been set at Rs 3,000 per animal.
Authorities said monitoring teams are active at all cattle markets to ensure implementation of the approved rates. Traders and buyers have also been urged to report any case of extra fee collection immediately so action can be taken without delay.
Officials confirmed that a person involved in charging extra money from a livestock trader was arrested shortly before the announcement. The administration said the arrest was made as part of ongoing efforts to stop illegal fee collection and protect traders from unnecessary charges.
The district administration further stated that complaints regarding overcharging are being taken seriously and field staff have been directed to remain present at cattle markets during business hours. The administration said action will continue against anyone violating the official fee structure.
Thousands of buyers and sellers are expected to visit cattle markets in the federal capital in the coming days as preparations for Eidul Azha continue. Authorities said steps are also being taken to maintain order and facilitate traders at designated livestock markets across Islamabad.