Panaji, Jul 31 (IANS): Covid-19-related transportation restrictions have made it difficult to source animals, especially from neighbouring states, for sacrifice for the upcoming Bakri Eid, Association of All Goa Muslim Jamaat chief Shaikh Bashir Ahmed said on Friday.

Ahmed urged Muslims to not visit mosques or prayer houses to offer the Eid namaz on account of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Very few animals are available in Goa (for sacrifice) especially because of government rules according to which only animals above 12 years can be slaughtered. This is why we have to try and source animals from outside Goa, especially Karnataka, but that is difficult due to Covid-19 restrictions," Ahmed told reporters.

"This time it has been difficult to source animals for sacrifice because of Covid-19 and the restrictions which are in place on account of the pandemic," he added.

There are economic reasons why cattle are usually preferred animals for sacrifice during Bakri Eid, Ahmed said, especially in wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, with people spending less due to economic uncertainty.

"As many as seven persons can purchase a bull and offer it for sacrifice so the cost per person is lesser. Whereas the sacrifice of a goat can only be credited to one person, which makes sacrificing goats an expensive proposition," Ahmed said.

Ahmed also said that mosque managing committees have already been advised not to keep their premises open for community prayers in wake of the pandemic.

"We would usually celebrate after Eid prayers. After namaaz in masjids or Idgahs, we would visit relatives and friends. We would share sweets and exchange pleasantries. But this year we cannot do all that to ensure safety. There is no point in taking risks due to Covid-19," Ahmed added.

Bakri Eid will be observed in the state on August 1.