Muharram 1448 AH Likely to Begin on June 17 in Pakistan

Muharram-ul-Haram 1448 AH is expected to begin in Pakistan on Wednesday, June 17, as astronomical calculations suggest that the Muharram moon is unlikely to be visible anywhere in the country on the evening of June 15.

Why Is Moon Sighting Unlikely on June 15?

According to Khalid Ejaz Mufti, Secretary General of the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council, the new moon will be born at 7:54 AM Pakistan Standard Time (PST) on June 15.

He explained that by sunset on the same day, the moon’s age across Pakistan will be less than 12 hours, which is considerably below the minimum age generally required for crescent visibility.

Key Factors Affecting Moon Visibility

Expected Conditions in Karachi and Peshawar

Mufti noted that the time gap between sunset and moonset is another important factor in determining whether the crescent can be seen.

On June 15, this interval is expected to be around 37 minutes in Karachi and 42 minutes in Peshawar. Despite these conditions, the moon’s young age is expected to make sighting extremely difficult.

Crescent Unlikely Even with Optical Aids

He further stated that the crescent is not expected to be visible on the evening of June 15, even under clear weather conditions and with the use of binoculars or telescopes.

When Will Muharram Begin?

Based on the assessment of the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council, Muharram 1, 1448 AH is likely to fall on June 17 after the completion of 30 days of Zil Hajj 1447 AH.

If the forecast proves correct, the new Islamic year will also commence on the same day.

Official Announcement to Come from Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee

Mufti clarified that the final and Shariah-based announcement regarding the sighting of the Muharram moon and the start of the new Islamic year will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

The committee’s official decision will determine the exact beginning of Muharram and the Islamic year in Pakistan.