Potholed roads to masjids fail to dampen Eid spirit

Bhopal: Traffic disruption is anticipated during Eid celebrations due to the incomplete PWD road construction near Taj-ul-Masajid. The project, which was scheduled to be finished before Eid, remains unfinished, likely causing significant traffic problems.
The sequence of Eid prayers begins at Idgah, followed by Jama Masjid, and then at Taj-ul-Masajid, which stands as one of India's largest mosques. The prayer at Taj-ul-Masajid commences 30-minutes after Idgah prayers which is at 7.30 am. Given the size of the people at Idgah the journey between Idgah Hills and Taj-ul-Masajid typically exceeds 30-minutes.
The ongoing construction between Royal market and Teen Mohre gate is expected to create a significant bottleneck at Royal market intersection. Once all three prayers are complete, traffic flows from three directions - Idgah Hills, Taj-ul-Masajid, and Peer Gate - will converge at this point. Additionally, prolonged traffic congestion could affect the area near Moti Masjid, where the prayer time is 8.15 am.
Traffic authorities have confirmed that vehicles from Idgah will be allowed to proceed towards Peer Gate. However, with only one operational road, managing the traffic situation effectively could prove challenging.
A details traffic plan will be released by Bhopal traffic police on Sunday.
Committee To Gather On Sunday For New Moon Sighting:
Bhopal's Ruyat Hilal committee will convene at sunset to determine the beginning of Shawwal and subsequently announce the date for Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Members will gather at designated observation points to sight the crescent moon. The committee will itself gather at Taj ul Masajid around sunset on Sunday, according to reports. Weather conditions will play a crucial role in the visibility of Hilal. Should the moon be sighted, the committee will immediately inform. If the moon remains unseen, Ramadhan will complete 30 days, and Eid will be celebrated the following day (Tuesday). This traditional moon-sighting method maintains religious significance in determining Islamic calendar dates.
Preparing for Eid ul Fitr:
Families eagerly prepare for the joyous celebration of Eid ul Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. People clean their homes thoroughly and decorate with lights and lanterns. Shopping centres buzz with activity as everyone buys new clothes, sweets, and gifts. Women apply beautiful henna designs on their hands while children help with making traditional delicacies. The aroma of biryani, kebabs, and sweet dishes fills households. Mosques are cleaned and adorned for special prayers.
Charitable donations, known as Zakat al-Fitr, are arranged to help the less fortunate. The night before Eid, families gather to spot the new moon, eagerly awaiting the festival's beginning.