First Fast of Ramadan Likely on March 2, Moon Sighting Uncertain

The first fast of Ramadan in Pakistan is expected to fall on March 2, as per the Meteorological Department’s latest prediction regarding moon sighting.

According to the department, the Ramadan crescent is unlikely to be visible on February 28 (29th Sha’ban). The new moon will be born on February 28 at 5:45 PM, but its age at sunset on 29th Sha’ban will be only 13 hours and 12 minutes. For the crescent to be visible, it must be at least 19 hours old, making moon sighting highly unlikely on that evening.

Additionally, the Met Office has forecasted partly cloudy to clear skies in different parts of the country on the evening of February 29, which may further impact visibility. Religious scholars and moon sighting committees will officially announce the start of Ramadan after reviewing the reports from across the country.

Muslims in Pakistan, like elsewhere, eagerly await the holy month of Ramadan, which brings spiritual reflection, fasting, and communal prayers. The final decision on the sighting of the moon will be made by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.