Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council has indicated that Eid-ul-Fitr is likely to be observed after the completion of 30 days of Ramadan this year. According to the council, Eid is expected to fall on Saturday, March 21, as the Shawwal moon is not likely to be visible on Thursday, March 19.
Secretary General Khalid Ijaz Mufti said the new moon will be born at 6:23 am Pakistan time on March 19. However, at the time of sunset, the moon’s age will be approximately 13 hours.
He explained that the crescent generally becomes visible when it is at least 19 hours old, making visibility unlikely in this case. He added that even if weather conditions remain clear, the moon will not be visible to the naked eye or through binoculars or telescopes due to its insufficient age.
Based on these astronomical calculations, the council expects Ramadan to complete 30 days, with Eid-ul-Fitr likely to be observed on March 21. The final announcement will be made after the official moon sighting process.