The Pakistan Meteorological Department has announced that Muslims across the country are expected to observe a full 30 days of fasting during this year’s Ramazan. This forecast comes as experts indicate that the Shawwal moon, which signals the end of Ramazan and the beginning of Eidul Fitr, is unlikely to be sighted on the evening of March 19. The department’s detailed astronomical calculations suggest that the crescent moon will not be visible on the 29th day of Ramazan, leading to the conclusion that fasting will continue for the entire month.
the department’s latest statement, the new moon is predicted to be born on March 19 at precisely 6:23 am. However, by the time the sun sets on the same day, marking the 29th day of Ramazan, the moon will be only 12 to 13 hours old. Such a young moon is generally too faint and positioned unfavorably for observers to spot it with the naked eye. This astronomical reality significantly reduces the chances of moon sighting on March 19, which traditionally determines the start of the month of Shawwal and the celebration of Eid.
Officials from the Met Office explained that the crescent will not be in an ideal position for visibility on the evening of March 19, reinforcing the likelihood that Ramazan will be completed with a full 30-day cycle. Based on these scientific observations, the department projects that Eidul Fitr will most likely be celebrated on Saturday, March 21. This date aligns with the standard practice of completing 30 days of fasting when the moon is not sighted on the 29th day.
Despite the strong reliance on scientific data and astronomical models, the Meteorological Department made it clear that the ultimate decision regarding the moon sighting rests with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. This committee plays a crucial role every year by gathering moon sighting reports from various parts of Pakistan before officially declaring the start of Shawwal and the date for Eidul Fitr. Their announcement is considered the final authority and is awaited by millions of Muslims across the country.
It is worth noting that the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s process involves careful examination of eyewitness accounts and other evidence, ensuring that the religious observance is aligned with both tradition and scientific understanding. The collaboration between meteorological experts and religious authorities highlights the blend of faith and science in determining important Islamic dates. As the month of Ramazan progresses, communities across Pakistan will be closely following updates from both the Met Office and the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to prepare for the joyous occasion of Eid.
