Sharjah ready for cannon shots

In preparation for the holy month of Ramadan, the Sharjah Police have said that 10 Ramadan cannons will be operational in various parts of the emirate for the entire month. The cannons will be fired regularly during the holy month every day at sunset to notify Muslims to break their fast.

Lt Col Mohammed Askar, deputy director of special mission at Shajah police said: "We have ensured that the people assigned to operate the cannons can use them properly. Two shots will be fired to mark the beginning of the holy month. A single shot will be fired throughout the month to announce Iftar time."

The cannons are popular and are regularly used during the holy month of Ramadan, preserving the Arab tradition. "The firing of cannons is a tradition that is practised in most parts of the Muslim world."

The canons have been installed in Al Jerain, Al Nour Mosque in Al Majaz, Al Barrab bin Azib Mosque, Al Mirgab, Al Bukhari Mosque in the Eastern region, Al Teraif Mosque in Kalba, Shaikh Rashid Al Qasimi Mosque in Dibba Al Hosn, and Al Dhaid police station.

After the cannons are fired, Iftar meals will be distributed to the people who gather to watch the shots. The firing will also be broadcast live by Sharjah TV.

Source: Khaleej Times