Forecast based on astronomical calculations; the final announcement corresponds to the Ruet-e-Hilal Central Committee
Ramadan in Pakistan is likely to begin on February 19, while Eidul Fitr can be observed on March 21, according to astronomical projections shared by the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council on Monday.
Speaking to the media, Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council Secretary General Khalid Ijaz Mufti said that the crescent marking the beginning of Ramadan is expected to be sighted on February 18. “Based on the moonrise and visibility parameters, the first moon of Ramadan is likely to fall on February 19,” he said, adding that the estimates are derived from astronomical calculations.
Mufti emphasized that the forecast should not be considered definitive, pointing out that the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is the only one that has the authority to announce the beginning of the Islamic months after the testimony of sightings of the moon.
Read: Government takes steps to have Ramadan across the country begin with a unified moon sighting
Commenting on Eidul Fitr, he said that the Shawwal moon is expected to be visible on March 20, which would put Eidul Fitr on March 21. “If weather conditions remain favorable, the chances of sighting the moon will be greater,” he added.
He also shared projections on Eidul Azha, stating that the first of Zilhajjah is likely to fall on May 17. “Accordingly, Eidul Azha can be observed on May 27,” he said.
Mufti reiterated that all dates are provisional and based purely on scientific estimates. “The final and decisive announcement regarding Ramadan and Eid will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee,” he maintained.
