Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, has announced that Muslims across Pakistan will observe Ramadan and celebrate Eidul Fitr on the same day this year.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Samaa TV, Maulana Azad expressed optimism about national unity in religious observances. “Efforts are underway to ensure that fasting begins simultaneously across the country,” he stated. This year, the committee’s meeting for the Ramadan moon sighting will be held in Peshawar. Maulana Azad emphasized that observing Ramadan and Eid together fosters national harmony and brings joy to the nation.
In the past, differing moon-sighting decisions often led to variations in the start of Ramadan across regions. However, this year, the committee is determined to avoid discrepancies.
The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) has forecasted that the first fast of Ramadan is expected on March 2, 2025, with the moon likely to be visible on March 1. According to Suparco, the moon will be born on February 28 at 5:45 pm but will be difficult to see that day due to its low altitude and a mere seven-degree angular distance from the sun.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is expected to begin Ramadan a day earlier, potentially starting on March 1.
Looking ahead to Eidul Fitr, Suparco predicts that the Shawwal moon will be sighted on March 30, making Eid likely to fall on March 31. The final decision on both Ramadan and Eid moon sightings will rest with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
