As the holy month of Ramadan nears its conclusion, anticipation builds across Pakistan for the sighting of the Shawwal moon, signaling the end of fasting and the beginning of Eid festivities. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), chances are high for the Shawwal moon sighting on Tuesday, April 9.
PMD forecasts suggest that the Shawwal moon is likely to appear on the night of April 8, around 11:21 pm local time. With an estimated moon age of 19 to 20 hours by April 9, there’s a good window of over 50 minutes for moon sighting after sunset.
Weather predictions indicate clear skies over most southern regions like Karachi, enhancing the prospects of moon sighting. However, cloudy conditions may prevail in northern areas.
If the moon sighting occurs as expected on April 9, Eid-ul-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan, will be observed on Wednesday, April 10. Eid-ul-Fitr holds immense religious and cultural significance for Muslims worldwide, symbolizing the completion of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
With the holiday season approaching, Pakistanis are gearing up for an extended break, potentially spanning six days. The government is considering a four-day holiday from April 9 to April 12, in addition to the regular weekend break.
The introduction of the lunar calendar by the IT ministry in 2019 has facilitated a more standardized approach to determining Islamic events’ dates, including Eid-ul-Fitr. This calendar, endorsed by the meteorological department, ensures uniformity in celebrations and addresses concerns related to moon sightings.
Eid-ul-Fitr is a time for families to come together, exchange greetings, share meals, and engage in acts of charity. As the nation eagerly awaits the moon sighting, preparations for Eid celebrations are underway, reflecting the spirit of unity, joy, and generosity that characterizes this auspicious occasion.
