In an eagerly awaited announcement, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted the sighting of the Ramzan 2024 moon, marking the beginning of the holy month of Ramzan for Muslims in Pakistan and around the globe. This sacred period is observed from sunrise to sunset with fasting, prayers, and acts of charity, drawing the faithful closer to Allah SWT.
As anticipation for Ramzan 2024 grows, the PMD has pinpointed the birth of the Ramzan crescent at 2 pm on March 10 (Sunday). According to the PMD’s statement, the moon’s age will exceed 28 hours by the time of the expected sighting on the following day, March 11, setting the stage for the commencement of Ramzan.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Pakistan’s premier moon sighting body, is scheduled to hold a session in Islamabad to confirm the moon sighting, with zonal committees across the country convening in their respective cities for the same purpose.
The PMD has also provided a weather forecast for March 11, indicating that the central and upper parts of Sindh might experience cloudy conditions due to a westerly wave’s influence. This weather pattern may affect the visibility of the moon crescent in these regions. Conversely, the southeastern part of Sindh is anticipated to have clear skies, potentially enhancing the chances of a successful moon sighting there. Meanwhile, Balochistan is expected to face cloudy weather conditions.
The forecast further mentions that the upper regions of Pakistan will likely encounter cloudy weather due to the western wave, which could impede moon sighting efforts. In Karachi, the weather is predicted to be partly cloudy today and tomorrow, adding a layer of uncertainty to the moon sighting in Pakistan’s largest city.
A Time of Spiritual Renewal
The holy month of Ramzan is a time of profound spiritual renewal and reflection for Muslims. It is not only a period for fasting but also for increased prayer, recitation of the Quran, and acts of charity. The sighting of the moon plays a crucial role in determining the start of Ramzan, as it follows the Islamic lunar calendar.
As the faithful in Pakistan and across the Muslim world prepare for this sacred month, the PMD’s predictions and the efforts of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee are closely watched. The anticipation of the moon sighting brings together communities in a shared moment of hope and prayer, marking the beginning of a month dedicated to spiritual growth and devotion.