ISLAMABAD: The International Astronomical Centre has issued a new prediction regarding the sighting of the Shawwal moon, which marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid-ul-Fitr.
The centre predicts that countries that began fasting on February 18 will conduct moon sighting on March 18 while countries that started fasting on February 19 will search for the Shawwal moon on March 19.
The centre announced that countries planning to search for the moon on March 18 will face difficulties because the moon will disappear from view before sunrise and a lunar conjunction will happen after sunset. The countries will observe Eid-ul-Fitr on March 20 based on their moon sighting practices.
The astronomical body explained that moon sighting will become impossible on March 19 because of the widespread cloudy weather conditions which will affect most of the Muslim world.
The centre expects that numerous countries will observe Eid-ul-Fitr on Saturday, March 21 because of the current moon viewing conditions.
Eidi ready: How to get new currency notes before Eid-ul-Fitr
Meanwhile, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has finalized the arrangements for the issuance of new currency notes for Eid-ul-Fitr. The bank has warned citizens to avoid buying notes at inflated prices from unauthorized sellers and to only use official channels.
How to Get New Notes:
The SBP usually activates its 8877 SMS service in the second week of Ramadan. To get new currency notes, follow these steps:
Open your mobile’s SMS app.
Type your CNIC number, followed by a space, and the desired bank branch code.
Send this message to 8877.
You will receive a unique transaction code and the address of the relevant branch.
After receiving the SMS with the code, visit the assigned bank branch with your original CNIC and a photocopy. The bank staff will verify your code, and you will receive packets of 10, 20, and 50 rupee notes.
Tips:
If there is high traffic on the 8877 service, contact the branch where your account is held. Many commercial banks receive a limited supply of new notes and usually prioritize their existing customers.
For those living in large cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, the SBP Bank Services Corporation offices usually stock a significant amount of new notes, distributed on a “first-come, first-served” basis.
During the last ten days of Ramadan, banks typically load fresh 500 and 1000 rupee notes into ATMs, which are useful for family members, especially elders, as Eidi.
Avoid Black Market Sellers:
Every year, some individuals illegally sell fresh currency notes at a higher price. The SBP urges citizens to only obtain notes from official sources and report any illegal activity to the authorities.
Experts advise that if you want fresh notes for Eid 2026, it’s best to start requesting them in the second week of Ramadan, as the limited quota may run out quickly.
