First day of Ramazan likely to fall on February 19: Suparco

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The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) said on Friday that the first day of Ramazan is “likely to fall” on February 19, 2026.

The new moon is expected to be born on Feb 17, 2026, at 5:01pm, according to the statement by the space agency.

“At the time of sunset on Feb 18, 2026, the age of the new moon will be approximately 25 hours and 48 minutes. The time duration between sunset and moonset is expected to be 59 minutes along the coastal areas of the country,” added the Suparco statement.

“Consequently, the 1st of Ramazan may likely to fall on 19 Feb 2026.”

However, the agency said the final announcement regarding the beginning of the Islamic holy month will be made by the Ruet-i-Hilal Committee, “which is the sole competent authority, based on credible witness testimonies from across the country”.

Earlier this week, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) stated that there is a “fair chance” of sighting the new moon of Ramazan on the evening of February 18.

“According to astronomical parameters, there is a ‘fair chance’ of sighting the new moon of Ramazan 1447 AH on the evening of February 18, 2026,” it said.

Furthermore, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy or fair in most parts of the country on Feb 18, it added.

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