A sudden hailstorm that hit Islamabad and Rawalpindi earlier this week has caused widespread damage to vehicles, resulting in a sharp rise in demand and prices for auto glass.
The storm, which struck unexpectedly, left many cars with broken windshields, damaged roofs, and shattered mirrors.
Car owners have been rushing to find replacement parts, only to find that stocks have run out in major auto markets.
Shopkeepers in Rawalpindi reported running out of standard windshields, with prices soaring. A windshield that previously cost Rs. 15,000 is now being sold for as much as Rs. 35,000, if available at all.
Smaller glass components, which used to cost between Rs. 100 and Rs. 200, are now priced up to Rs. 1,000.
Market sources have noted an unusually high number of customers visiting shops since the storm, overwhelming normal traffic. Many outlets are out of stock, and suppliers have stopped accepting new orders due to strain on the supply chain.
Traders in Saddar pointed out that only windshields for luxury or rare vehicles remain available, and these have seen price increases of Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 in recent days.