Illegal cattle market galore in Sylhet city

Some 15 unauthorised cattle markets have been set up around Sylhet city allegedly by people affiliated with the ruling Awami League leading to the loss of revenue for Sylhet City Corporation (SCC) which otherwise could have come from leases.

A visit to some of the spots revealed cattle put up for sale in spaces marked with bamboo fences and megaphones being used to invite customers.

Lulon Mahmud, manager of the sole cattle market authorised by SCC in Kazirbazar, said he was losing out on hasil (an amount the market owners charge customers on the sale value of animals) as trucks carrying cattle were being forced to unload at the illegal markets.

The markets are at Tilaghar point, Abul Mal Abul Muhit sports complex area, Chorarpar, Chalibandar, Shahporan, Mendibagh, Jhalopara, Technical Road, Kumargaon Bus Stand, Masimpur, Ambarkhana, Akhalia, Taltola and in front of the Shahjalal University of Engineering and Technology and of MC College.

Sources said the markets at Chorarpar and Chalibandar were being run by Mushfiq Jaigidar, joint convener of Jubo League's Sylhet city unit, and Abul Kaher Iju, president of Truck Malik Group, respectively.

Both claimed that their names were being used.

SCC Chief Executive Enamul Habib said a monitoring committee has been formed to "take steps" against the illegal markets and those involved.

However, none of the markets were removed as of last night.