Muslim Call To Prayer 'Banned' In Tajik City Ahead Of Ramadan

Worshipers at the central mosque in the Tajik capital, Dushanbe.

Local reports say the call to prayer through loudspeakers has been banned in northern Tajikistan as Muslims worldwide ready for the holy month of Ramadan, which starts on August 11 and 12.

Reports say authorities in Tajikistan's northern city of Panjakent in Sughd province have prohibited the "adhan" via loudspeakers because they said it could cause confusion and disturbs the peace.

Tajkistan is a predominately Muslim country.

Muslims observe the holy month by refraining from food, drink, smoking, and sex during daylight hours.

Also today, in Saudi Arabia, a new clock meant to serve as a reference point for the world's central time zone is set to start ticking in Islam's holiest city of Mecca for a trial period in mid-August.

based on RFE/RL's Tajik Service and wire reports