The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted that Ramadan is likely to last 30 days this year in Pakistan. According to its latest forecast, the Shawwal moon is not expected to be visible on March 19, which will be the 29th day of Ramadan.
Officials said the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH will be born at 6:23 am on March 19. However, by sunset that day, the moon’s age will be around 12 to 13 hours.
Experts believe this age is too short for the crescent to be seen with the naked eye under normal weather conditions. Because of this, Ramadan is expected to last 30 days.
The Met Office clarified that this prediction is based on astronomical calculations. It does not make the final decision about Eid.
In Pakistan, the official announcement for Eid al-Fitr is made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after receiving moon sighting reports from across the country.
Moon sighting in Pakistan follows both scientific data and eyewitness testimony. While forecasts help provide an early idea, the final decision depends on verified reports.
If the moon is not sighted on March 19, Eid al-Fitr will likely be observed a day later, after 30 days of fasting. Muslims across the country are now waiting for the official announcement to confirm the exact date of Eid.
