The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has indicated that the Muharram-ul-Haram 1448 AH moon is unlikely to be sighted on June 15, citing insufficient time between the moon’s birth and sunset for the crescent to become visible.
In an advisory issued on Thursday – June 11, the Met Office stated that although weather conditions are expected to remain clear in several parts of the country, the new moon is forecast to be born at 7:54am on June 15.
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As a result, the crescent is not expected to be visible at sunset on the 29th of Zil Hajj. The PMD also shared moonset timings for different regions.
According to the forecast, the moon is expected to set at 7:59pm in Punjab, 8:55pm in Sindh, 8:23pm in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and 8:34pm in Balochistan.
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In Gilgit-Baltistan, moonset is expected at 8:00pm, while in Azad Jammu and Kashmir the moon will remain above the horizon until 8:07pm.
However, the official announcement regarding the beginning of the new Islamic year and the start of Muharram will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after reviewing moon sighting testimonies received from across the country.
Meanwhile, security preparations for Muharram are also underway. The Punjab Home Department has approached the Ministry of Interior seeking the deployment of Pakistan Army and Pakistan Rangers personnel across the province to assist in maintaining law and order during the holy month.
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According to a spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department, the request was made following recommendations from Punjab Police for additional security support.
The department has sought 137 companies for deployment in 39 districts of Punjab to strengthen security arrangements and ensure peaceful observance of Muharram-ul-Haram.
About Muharram-ul-Haram
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is regarded as one of the four sacred months in Islam.
The beginning of Muharram marks the start of the Islamic New Year and holds deep religious significance for Muslims around the world.
The month is particularly remembered for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was killed along with his companions in the Battle of Karbala on the 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, in 680 CE.
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The event symbolizes sacrifice, justice, steadfastness, and resistance against oppression.
For many Muslims, especially Shia communities, Muharram is a period of mourning and remembrance. Majalis (religious gatherings), processions, and other commemorative events are held throughout the month to honor the sacrifices made at Karbala.
The month serves as a reminder of faith, patience, and the importance of standing for truth and justice, making it one of the most spiritually significant periods in the Islamic calendar.
