The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is scheduled to convene in Islamabad today to sight the Shawwal moon and determine the date of Eid-ul Fitr.
The meeting will be chaired by Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, while zonal and district Ruet-e-Hilal committees will simultaneously gather in their respective regions to observe the Shawwal moon. Their findings will be shared with the central body for the final announcement.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has predicted that Eidul Fitr 2026 is likely to fall on March 21, indicating a complete 30-day Ramadan. Experts have stated that the chances of sighting the Shawal crescent on the evening of March 20 are extremely low, making it probable that fasting will continue for the full duration before Eid is celebrated the following day.
On the weather front, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert for rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds in multiple parts of the country from March 17 to 25, coinciding with the expected Eid holidays.
According to NDMA, a westerly weather system is expected to affect northern and western regions, bringing light to moderate rainfall along with gusty winds and thunderstorms. A noticeable drop in temperatures is also forecast during this period.
In Punjab, including cities such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Sargodha, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Lahore, widespread rain and stormy conditions are anticipated. Upper areas may also experience isolated hailstorms.
Southern districts like Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and Dera Ghazi Khan are expected to witness occasional rainfall and cloudy weather, adding to the overall impact of the changing conditions during the festive period.
Read more: Saudi Arabia Set to Sight Shawwal Moon Today
