The crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan has been sighted across Pakistan, and the first fast will be observed tomorrow, officials confirmed.
The announcement was made after multiple verified testimonies were received from different parts of the country. Authorities said more than 21 moon sighting reports were confirmed before the official declaration.
The decision was announced by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, after a meeting held in Peshawar.
Officials reported that moon sightings were received from several areas, including Khyber, Jamrud, Ghandi, Upper Dir, and Buner. After reviewing and verifying the testimonies, the committee formally confirmed the start of Ramadan.
In addition to the central meeting, zonal committees also convened sessions in major cities. A separate meeting was held in Lahore, chaired by Director General Religious Affairs Shahid Hussain Kalyani, to review local reports.
Authorities coordinated closely to ensure all testimonies were carefully examined before making the final announcement.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department had earlier predicted favorable conditions for moon sighting. According to officials, the moon’s age at sunset was expected to be around 25 hours, increasing the chances of clear visibility.
This forecast aligned with the reports received from across the country.
Meanwhile, the Ramadan moon has also been sighted in India and Bangladesh, where Muslims will also observe the first fast tomorrow.
Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months in Islam. Muslims observe fasting from dawn to sunset, engage in prayers, charity, and spiritual reflection, and seek forgiveness and blessings.
Mosques across Pakistan are expected to see large congregations for Taraweeh prayers as communities prepare for the sacred month.