Animal farming: UAF, Livestock Dept to setup model cattle market

FAISALABAD: A model cattle market would be set up at the Proka Research Farms on Narwala Road by the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) in collaboration with Livestock and Dairy Development Department, The Express Tribune has learnt.

Officials from both sides are working on the project, expected to be set up by October.

The market would be equipped with modern facilities. It would allow small cattle producers and buyers a chance to avoid contractors and middlemen.

Talking to The Express Tribune on Sunday, UAF Vice Chancellor Iqrar Ahmad Khan said that the proposed cattle market would also house a model slaughter house, a grain market, a feed mill and a students’ hostel and internship opportunities.

The market would also have a restaurant for visitors.

A data base of animals would also be maintained and made accessible to ensure traceability.

Highlighting the salient features of the cattle market, the VC said that it would consist separate sections for goat, sheep, camel, buffaloes and horse. It would also have a mules section, small and large ruminants sections and milking sheds.

He said that UAF management intended to be service providers and at the same time wanted to explore issues’ related to animals and those of the producers and buyers through research.

He said he had observed that cattle market in the town had nearly disappeared in the last few years.

“UAF is determined to provide a modern and competitive facility that would help the general public and play a pivotal role in our academic and research endeavors” he said.

The VC met a Livestock Department delegation last week to discuss the project.