The auction process for the Bhata Ground Cattle Market has hit a deadlock after bidders rejected the Rs4 billion reserve price set by authorities.
The market, located in Rawalpindi, is one of the largest livestock trading centres serving both Rawalpindi and Islamabad, especially during Eid ul Adha.
According to reports, bidders formed a unified stance against the high reserve price and demanded that bidding should begin from last year’s rates. As a result, two auction attempts have already failed.
Last year, the contract for the 15-day cattle market was awarded for Rs165.7 million. However, this year authorities have proposed a new model, offering a year-long contract that includes both regular operations and the Eidul Azha season.
Under the proposed plan, the market would operate throughout the year, with weekly livestock trading activities in addition to the annual sacrificial animal sale. Officials believe this approach could ensure a steady supply of livestock, support agriculture and dairy sectors, and generate higher revenue.
Despite these expectations, bidders remain reluctant to accept the Rs4 billion starting price, arguing that it is too high compared to previous benchmarks.
Authorities have maintained that the reserve price reflects the commercial potential of a year-round market and have refused to lower it. The ongoing disagreement has prevented progress in the auction process.
A third open auction has now been scheduled for April 13, which will be crucial in determining whether the cantonment administration can move forward with its plan to convert the market into a permanent livestock trading hub.
