QUETTA – Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee officially announced the sighting of the Muharram moon, marking beginning of Islamic New Year, 1447 Hijri, and day of Ashura will be observed on Sunday, July 6.
The announcement was made on Thursday evening by the committee’s chairman, Moulana Abdul Khabir Azad, during a press conference following the monthly moon-sighting meeting.
According to Moulana Azad, the meetings of the central, zonal, and district Ruet-e-Hilal Committees were held simultaneously at their respective headquarters across the country. Based on credible moon-sighting testimonies received from multiple locations, the committee confirmed the beginning of Muharram.
Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee members are sighting crescent moon of Muharram 1447 Hijri as nation eagerly awaits confirmation of the new Islamic year. Stay tuned for live updates as the meeting begins.
Muharram-ul-Haram moon was not sighted in Lahore and several other cities. As of 8:30 PM, the Punjab Ruet-e-Hilal Committee confirmed no credible reports of moon sighting from anywhere in the province. Meanwhile, meetings of the Central and Zonal Ruet-e-Hilal Committees are still underway in Quetta and other locations.
Cloudy Skies Obstruct Muharram Moon
The sighting of Muharram moon was hampered Thursday evening amid widespread cloud cover across most parts of the country, including Lahore. Heavy clouds blanketed the sky, making it difficult for observers to view the new moon with the naked eye.
According to weather reports, overcast conditions prevailed in several regions since last evening, particularly affecting visibility during the crucial moon sighting window.
Committee Members Arriving in Quetta
Members of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, led by Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, have started arriving at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Quetta. The official meeting is expected to begin shortly.
Official Announcement
Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad will make the final announcement shortly. Religious and government officials across the country remain on standby.
Zonal Committees Convene Across Pakistan
Zonal and district Ruet-e-Hilal Committees are gathering in major cities including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Islamabad. Local observations will be compiled and shared with the central body.
SUPARCO Confirms Favorable Conditions
Pakistan’s space agency, SUPARCO, has reiterated that the moon should be visible tonight. The crescent is expected to be over 28 hours old by sunset, the age suitable for visibility under clear skies.
Sunset Approaching in Most Cities
With sunset times nearing across the country, reports of potential sightings are expected to begin trickling in soon from various zones.
Weather Conditions Not Favorable in Most Regions
As clear skies are best for moon sighting, Quetta, Lahore, Islamabad are having cloudy condition, offering low factors for moon visibility.
Committee Begins Internal Consultations
Central Committee has started reviewing moon sighting reports from zonal and district offices. No official confirmation yet.
Stay with Pakistan Observer for real-time updates as the new Islamic year nears its confirmation.
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