The start of the sacred month of Muharram is expected to bring two public holidays across the country at the end of this month, though a final announcement will depend on the sighting of the moon by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
Initial astronomical estimates and predictions by experts suggest that the 9th and 10th of Muharram, marking Ashura, are likely to fall on June 25 and June 26 June.
The Government of Pakistan has declared public holidays on the 9th and 10th of Muharram nationwide, but the dates will only be confirmed once the Muharram moon is sighted, after which an official notification will be issued by the federal government.
It is recalled that the federal government observes public holidays on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, during which all government and private offices, banks and educational institutions remain closed.
A spokesperson for Suparco stated that chances of sighting the Muharram moon on 15 June are very limited. It is expected that Zilhaj 1447 AH will complete 30 days, with 1st Muharram likely to fall on 17 June. If so, Ashura is expected to be observed on Friday, 26 June.
