The sighting of the Zil Hajj moon is set to be decided today as the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee holds its crucial meeting in Karachi.
The announcement will finalize the Islamic calendar dates, including Eid ul Adha celebrations across Pakistan.
The central meeting of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is being held today (Sunday) at the Pakistan Meteorological Department in Karachi.
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, zonal committees will also participate in the moon sighting process from their respective locations across the country.
The final announcement regarding the sighting of the Zil Hajj crescent will be made after receiving testimonies from different regions.
Eid ul Azha expected dates
If the moon is sighted today, Eid ul Azha will be celebrated on May 27. If not, the festival will fall on May 28.
The first day of Zil Hajj is expected to begin on Monday, May 18, based on astronomical projections.
Suparco forecast and moon visibility
The SUPARCO had earlier predicted that the new moon is likely to be sighted on May 17.
According to the space agency, the new moon was born at 1:01am, and its age at sunset today will be around 18 hours and 30 minutes.
Officials noted that this age is generally considered suitable for visibility in several regions of Pakistan.
SUPARCO further explained that atmospheric and astronomical conditions appear favourable for crescent visibility this evening.
In coastal areas, there is expected to be a gap of around 60 minutes between sunset and moonset, which significantly increases the chances of sighting the crescent.
Despite the scientific projections, the final and official decision will be taken by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which is responsible for announcing Islamic lunar dates in Pakistan.
Authorities have urged citizens to await the official announcement before confirming Eid ul Adha plans.
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