The Government of Punjab has declared public holidays from March 19 to 21 on account of Eid ul Fitr, according to an official notification issued on Wednesday.

The notification, released by the province’s Services and General Administration Department, confirms that Thursday, Friday and Saturday will be observed as Eid holidays across Punjab.

With Sunday falling immediately after and March 23 marked as Pakistan Day, the announcement effectively creates an extended break of up to five days for many residents.

Authorities have directed that the notification be published in major English and Urdu newspapers and disseminated through electronic media to ensure public awareness.

Separately, Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission has indicated that Eid is likely to fall around March 21, based on astronomical estimates. The agency said the Shawwal moon is expected to be born on March 19 at 6:23am (PST), with visibility conditions depending on factors such as moon age and sunset timing.

However, the final announcement regarding Eid will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after official moon sighting.