ISLAMABAD: The Meteorological Department has forecasted that the first day of Ramazan in Pakistan is expected to fall on Sunday, March 2, as the moon is unlikely to be sighted on February 28 (29th Sha’ban).
According to meteorological experts, the new moon will be born on February 28 at 5:45 PM. However, at sunset, its age will be just 13 hours and 12 minutes—falling short of the minimum 19-hour requirement for visibility. Due to this, the Ramazan crescent is unlikely to be spotted in Pakistan on that evening.
While the Meteorological Department provides scientific predictions, the final announcement regarding the start of Ramazan will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. The committee is set to meet on February 28 to confirm the official commencement date of the holy month.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is expected to begin fasting a day earlier, on March 1, as officials anticipate the moon to be visible on February 28.
