MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): With only a few days remaining before Eid-ul-Fitr, a large number of citizens are heading back to their hometowns to celebrate the festival with their families, leading to a rush at the Muzaffarabad General Bus Stand.
Passengers have expressed concern over increased transport fares and alleged overloading by transport operators. Many commuters complained that fares have surged significantly ahead of Eid, adding to their travel difficulties.
On the other hand, transporters have defended the increase, stating that the rise in fares is linked to the recent hike in petroleum prices, which has increased operational costs.
The seasonal rush ahead of Eid has resulted in overcrowding at transport terminals, with authorities urged to take notice of fare hikes and ensure implementation of official rates to facilitate travelers.
According to reports, transporters have significantly increased intercity fares by Rs600 to Rs800 per passenger.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Railways has also increased fares by 5 to 10 per cent, resulting in a decline in train ticket bookings as well.
Muzaffarabad Eid prayer timings
Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the Central Eid Gah, Muzaffarabad, and Prime Minister’s House Masjid Osmania will be offered at 8 am.
Eid prayers at Jamia Muhammadiya Upper Chhatar and University College Ground will be offered at 7:15 am.
Eid prayers at Narol Stadium will be offered at 7:45 am, while Eid prayers at Masjid-ur-Rehman will be held at 7:30 am.
Eid prayers at Jamia Masjid Barkatiya will be offered at 8:30 am.
Eid-ul-Fitr moon sighting
The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) predicted that the Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 moon is unlikely to be seen on March 19, meaning that Eid will fall on March 21.
As per details, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will meet on March 19 to sight the Shawwal moon, which determines the date of Eid-ul-Fitr.
The Suparco, however, said that the chances of sighting the Shawwal moon on March 19 remain low, adding that the new moon was expected to be born on March 19 at 6:23 am.
The statement added, “At the time of sunset on March 19, 2026, the age of the new moon will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes, with an estimated 28-minute interval between sunset and moonset along Pakistan’s coastal belt.”
