ISLAMABAD – The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is scheduled to gather in Peshawar on February 18 to observe the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447AH. At the same time, regional and zonal committees will hold parallel meetings in different parts of the country to ensure coordinated moon sighting efforts nationwide.
The session will be presided over by Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, who will lead discussions and review testimonies received from across the country. After assessing both visual sightings and scientific input, the committee will formally announce whether the holy month will commence on February 19 or February 20.
Astronomical calculations show that the new moon is expected to be born on February 17. However, experts believe it will be too young and faint to be sighted with the naked eye that evening. Visibility conditions are projected to improve the following day, increasing the chances of confirmed sightings on February 18. If the crescent is successfully observed, fasting across Pakistan is expected to begin on February 19.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has provided supportive weather forecasts, predicting mostly clear to partly cloudy skies in many regions. Such conditions are considered favorable for moon sighting activities, strengthening expectations of an early confirmation.
Religious scholars, officials, and citizens alike now await the committee’s final decision, which will determine the official start of Ramadan and guide millions in preparing for the sacred month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
