RAMGATI, LAXMIPUR, May 15: Around 30,000 cattle have been prepared for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha sacrifice in Ramgati and Kamalnagar upazilas of Laxmipur, but farmers are now worried as a viral outbreak affects livestock in the coastal region.
According to the District Livestock Office, a total of 120 cattle farms in Ramgati and Kamalnagar have prepared nearly 30,000 sacrificial animals this year. Of these, 35 farms in Kamalnagar account for around 13,000 cattle, while 85 farms in Ramgati have about 17,000.
However, farmers say that over the past month, viral diseases have been spreading among livestock, creating panic among cattle rearers who have invested large sums in hopes of earning profits during the Eid season.
Veterinary experts said the outbreak is largely linked to Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), a contagious viral infection affecting cattle. The disease spreads mainly through mosquitoes and flies and causes fever, skin nodules, blisters, swelling of limbs, and reduced milk production. There is no specific cure, but vaccination and vector control can help prevent its spread.
Experts also warned that ensuring animal health at least two weeks before Eid is crucial for farmers to avoid losses during the peak trading period.
Farmers in the region said the situation has left them deeply worried.
Golam Rabbani, a farmer from Char Gazi Union under Ramgati, said he has 25 cattle in his farm, all of which are showing symptoms of the disease.
"Several nearby farms are also affected. Farmers are likely to suffer heavy losses," he said, adding that he has not received adequate treatment support despite contacting local livestock offices.
Another farmer, Md Milon, said he has 17 cattle in his farm. "Diseases are spreading suddenly. If the animals remain sick, they cannot be sold during Eid, which is causing anxiety among small, medium and large farmers alike," he said.
Bhutto, owner of Bhutto Dairy Farm, said all 70 cattle in his farm have been affected.
"Without government support or subsidy, many farmers may be forced to quit this business," he warned.
Ramgati Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Md Ismail Hossain said efforts are underway to treat infected animals and bring them back to health before they reach the market.
District Livestock Officer Dr. A.K.M. Fazlul Haque said the disease has spread across the country. "Although vaccine supply is limited compared to the livestock population, we are trying our best to manage the situation," he said.
Farmers now fear that the outbreak could hit Eid cattle trade hard if the situation does not improve soon.
