ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted that the crescent moon marking the beginning of Safar is likely to be visible on the evening of July 15. If the forecast proves correct, July 16 will be observed as the first day of Safar in Pakistan.
According to the PMD, the new moon will be born at 2:43 pm on July 14. This timing is expected to create favorable conditions for crescent visibility the following evening.
Officials said the expected weather and atmospheric conditions will support moon sighting in most parts of the country. Clear visibility is also likely in Sindh, increasing the chances of observing the crescent.
In Karachi, residents are expected to have a good opportunity to view the moon after sunset. The crescent is forecast to remain above the horizon for around 64 minutes.
The PMD said the last expected time for moon sighting in Karachi will be approximately 8:28 pm. This provides skywatchers with a relatively long observation window compared to many other months.
The department explained that its prediction is based on astronomical calculations and expected weather conditions. These forecasts help estimate the likelihood of moon visibility but do not serve as the official declaration.
The beginning of Safar will be confirmed only after the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee reviews moon-sighting reports from across the country. The committee collects testimonies from different regions before making its official announcement.
Religious scholars and committee members will examine all available evidence before declaring the start of the new Islamic month. This process follows the established practice used for confirming the beginning of every Islamic month in Pakistan.
The PMD regularly issues astronomical forecasts to assist the public and relevant authorities. These predictions provide scientific guidance about the expected visibility of the crescent moon.
However, officials have stressed that the final decision rests with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. The committee’s announcement remains the official confirmation for the start of Safar and other Islamic months.
If the moon is sighted on July 15, Muslims across Pakistan will begin observing the second month of the Islamic calendar on July 16. Religious institutions and the public are expected to await the committee’s final decision before making any official observance.
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The PMD’s latest forecast suggests favorable conditions for moon sighting, but the official start of Safar will depend on verified reports received from different parts of the country. The committee’s announcement is expected after its scheduled meeting on July 15.
