Pakistan is poised to begin the holy month of Ramadan on a unified date across the country this year, according to the head of the nation’s central moon-sighting committee. Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, expressed confidence that the first fast would be observed simultaneously nationwide.
Committees Convene for Moon Sighting
The official process to confirm the start date is now underway. The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is holding its key meeting in Peshawar today. Simultaneously, zonal committees in major cities—including Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, and Islamabad—are conducting their own sessions to gather local testimonies and evidence.
Scientific Guidance Informs Religious Decision
The committee’s work is supported by technical expertise from national scientific bodies. Representatives from the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Pakistan Meteorological Department, and the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) are integral members.
“The Ministry of Science and the Meteorological Department provide technical guidance to the committee during the moon-sighting process,” Maulana Azad stated, highlighting the blend of religious tradition and modern science in the decision-making.
Strong Astronomical Indicators for Thursday Start
Scientific data suggests a high probability for the moon’s visibility. According to a Suparco spokesperson, the new moon was born on Tuesday afternoon. By sunset today, the crescent will be approximately 25 hours and 48 minutes old, making it likely visible to the naked eye under clear weather conditions.
Based on this analysis, Suparco indicated a strong possibility that the first day of Ramadan will be observed on Thursday. However, the final and official announcement rests solely with the Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, who will declare the start after reviewing all evidence from the nationwide meetings.
A Continued Trend of National Unity
Maulana Azad noted that a single, nationwide commencement for Ramadan fasting has been successfully announced for several consecutive years. He expressed hope that, God willing, this practice of unity would continue seamlessly for Ramadan 2026, bringing the entire country together in observance.
