When will Ramazan fasting begin in Pakistan?

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is expected to begin the Islamic holy month of Ramazan on Thursday, February 19, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said in a new forecast.

The prediction is based on astronomical data indicating a strong probability that the new crescent moon will be sighted on the evening of Wednesday, February 18. The PMD said that the new moon will be born at 5:01 pm local time on February 17.

According to meteorological experts, the moon’s age and favorable weather conditions expected on February 18 will create a high likelihood of a successful sighting across the country.

In the southern port city of Karachi, the moon will be approximately 26 hours old on the evening of the sighting. Sunset is predicted for 6:25 pm, while the moon will set at 7:24 pm, providing a nearly one-hour window for observation.

While the scientific data points to a Feb. 19 start, the final and official declaration will be made by Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. The committee will convene after sunset on Feb. 18 to gather testimonies of moon sightings from across the nation before making its announcement.