Kolkata’s Galiff Street: Home to oldest, largest pet market

Home to several different varieties of birds and animals, Galiff Street is one of the oldest and largest weekly pet markets in Kolkata. (Express photo by Partha Paul)

The market, which is also known as Bagbazar Sokher Haat, on a usual Sunday sees a footfall of around 40,000-50,000 people, according to a PTI report. (Express photo by Partha Paul)

Various kinds of birds, fish, dogs, rabbits, and even plants, among other species can be found here. (Express photo by Partha Paul)

The market prohibits the buying, selling, or capturing of bird species listed under the Indian Wildlife (Conservation) Act, 1972, such as certain varieties of quails, bulbuls and owls. An offender can be imprisoned for up to 7 years and fined up to Rs 25,000 or both. (Express photo by Partha Paul)

The pet market was initially located at Hatibagan and was shifted to Galiff Street in 1996 due to congestion. (Express photo by Partha Paul)

Sellers from faraway places like Khardah to Bandel can be found at the market with ornamental fish, pet dogs, birds and plants. (Express photo by Partha Paul)

Galiff Street was shut down in March 2020 due to the pandemic-induced lockdown. It reopened in September 2020. (Express photo by Partha Paul)