Hailstorm Devastates Islamabad and Rawalpindi, Triggers Windscreen Shortage and Soaring Prices
A recent and unexpected hailstorm brought chaos to Islamabad and Rawalpindi, leaving significant damage in its wake particularly to vehicles left exposed to the elements. The intense weather event shattered thousands of car windshields and windows, resulting in an urgent demand for auto glass replacements across both cities.
As the twin cities struggle with the aftermath, local auto parts markets are now experiencing a severe shortage of windshields and other vehicle glass components. Car owners are rushing to get their vehicles repaired but are often met with empty shelves or skyrocketing prices.
Windscreen Prices Double Overnight after massive Hailstorm
Before the storm, the average price of a standard windshield hovered around Rs. 15,000. However, the unexpected spike in demand and quickly depleting inventory have driven prices up to an astonishing Rs. 35,000 more than double the original cost.
Even smaller components like side mirrors, quarter glass, and rear windows have seen substantial price hikes. Auto shop owners report that while prices for regular parts have surged, more specialized glass for rare or imported cars has become even more expensive rising by as much as Rs. 15,000.
Auto Markets Struggling to Cope windscreen outrage after Hailstorm
Major auto markets in Islamabad’s G-8 sector and Rawalpindi’s Saddar area are now overwhelmed with customers searching for replacement parts. Shopkeepers say they are struggling to meet demand as their stock runs dangerously low.
“The scale of this damage is unlike anything we’ve seen in years,” said a local auto parts dealer in Islamabad. “We usually maintain a healthy stock of windshields for common models, but this time, it wasn’t enough. We sold out in just a couple of days, and suppliers are telling us it could take a week or more for fresh shipments to arrive.”
Supply chain disruptions and shipment delays are adding to the problem. Several suppliers have temporarily paused new deliveries, further worsening the already tight situation.
Car Owners Left in a Lurch
For many vehicle owners, the situation is both financially and emotionally stressful. Social media is flooded with stories of frustrated individuals trying to repair their cars while dealing with inflated prices and limited options.
“Finding a windshield for my sedan has become an absolute nightmare,” said Ahmed Raza, a resident of Islamabad. “Shops are either out of stock or charging absurd prices. One even quoted me Rs. 30,000 for something that normally costs Rs. 15,000.”
This widespread frustration has sparked conversations about market regulation and the need for better disaster preparedness.
Extreme Weather Events on the Rise
This event has once again drawn attention to the rising frequency of extreme weather in Pakistan. Environmental analysts link these changes to shifting climate patterns, poor urban infrastructure, and inadequate disaster management planning.
As such incidents become more common, residents may need to adopt preventive measures to protect their vehicles. Covered parking spaces, protective car covers, and better awareness could help mitigate future damage.
What’s Ahead for the Auto Sector after Hailstorm?
Experts predict that the supply and demand imbalance may take several weeks to stabilize. Until then, car owners are advised to shop around, confirm the authenticity of replacement parts, and avoid falling for overpriced or counterfeit products.
Online platforms may provide alternative solutions, but caution is strongly advised to ensure product quality. Consumers should only buy from trusted vendors and, if possible, wait until prices return to normal levels.
As Islamabad and Rawalpindi recover from the storm’s impact, it’s evident that the hailstorm has done more than just physical damage. It has disrupted lives, strained supply chains, and exposed the vulnerabilities within the auto repair market during times of crisis.
