Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to meet on Feb 28 for Ramadan moon sighting

The federal government has decided to convene the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee in Peshawar to sight the Ramadan moon, aiming for a unified start to the holy month across Pakistan.

According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the meeting to determine the beginning of Ramadan 1446 Hijri will be held on February 28, 2025.

Committee chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad will preside over the session.

Zonal Ruet-e-Hilal committees will hold separate meetings in their respective regions, but the final decision on moon sighting will come from the central body.

The religious affairs ministry will oversee the arrangements.

Pakistan has historically faced differences in moon sighting, leading to varying Ramadan and Eid dates in different provinces, particularly between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the rest of the country.

The government hopes that shifting the central committee’s meeting to Peshawar will foster consensus among religious scholars and ensure a synchronised observance of the holy month.

Moreover, Lahore is set to open 10 model bazaars across the city, as part of preparations for the holy month of Ramadan.

The markets, aimed at providing discounted and quality goods to citizens during Ramadan, will be set up under the supervision of the district administration, Express News reported.

A meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lahore, Syed Musa Raza, last week to finalise arrangements for the upcoming Ramadan bazaars.

According to the briefing, each of the 10 model bazaars will feature 10 shops – seven dedicated to selling fruits, vegetables, pulses, spices, and other goods, while three will be focused on meat products.

In an effort to make shopping more accessible, separate counters for women, senior citizens, and regular customers will be available.

This initiative is expected to enhance convenience and comfort, ensuring that everyone can shop efficiently.