The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has announced that the crescent marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447 AH is expected to be born on February 17 at 5:01pm (PST). According to its assessment, there is a reasonable likelihood that the moon may be sighted on the evening of February 18.
In a communication addressed to the Research and Reference Wing of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the PMD noted that the lunar conjunction will occur at 5:01pm on February 17. Based on astronomical calculations, the department indicated a fair possibility of visibility on February 18, corresponding to the 29th of Shaban 1447 AH.
The PMD’s Climate Data Processing Centre (CDPC) further reported that weather conditions across most parts of the country on the evening of February 18 are expected to remain partly cloudy to clear, which could facilitate moon-sighting activities.
The department also issued province-wise details regarding the expected time of moonset on February 18. The crescent is projected to remain visible until 7:24pm in Sindh, 7:08pm in Punjab, 7:47pm in Balochistan, 7:13pm in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 6:58pm in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and 6:53pm in Gilgit-Baltistan. Areas not specifically mentioned in the schedule may also observe the moon until sunset in line with their local timings.
In keeping with established practice, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will convene on the 29th of Shaban, alongside zonal committees in different regions, to evaluate testimonies and formally announce the commencement of Ramadan. Religious scholars representing various schools of thought will participate in the central meeting.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed with devotion across Pakistan and the wider Muslim world. During this period, believers fast daily from dawn until sunset. The month is also characterized by heightened charitable activities, with community-driven initiatives such as public iftar arrangements and roadside stalls providing meals to those traveling home in the evening.