In Pakistan and beyond, tasks such as firefighting and disposing bombs are widely considered a man's job.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), however, a young woman is defying stereotypes by training to become the country's first ever female member of the Bomb Disposal Unit (BDU).

Rafia Qaseem Baig has volunteered for the daring feat because she had never seen a Pakistani or Asian woman member of the BDU.

Rafia wants to send a message about the bravery of KP's men and women.

"If KP's women are so daring, [imagine] what level [of courage] male soldiers will possess," she says.

She recalls that on the day she first joined the police, a blast had occurred near a sessions court. The explosion seven years ago was what drove her join the force and she hasn't looked back since.

Rafia's message to women across the country?

"A woman can turn any hardship into ease if she is willing."

She wishes to present a positive image of her country and the police force "practically".

For Rafia, it would be a matter of pride for her family if she were to sacrifice her life for the country while tackling explosives to save people's lives.

"My country is my home... the Pakistani nation is my family."

Opinion

Editorial

Missing links
Updated 27 Apr, 2024

Missing links

As the past decades have shown, the country has not been made more secure by ‘disappearing’ people suspected of wrongdoing.
Freedom to report?
27 Apr, 2024

Freedom to report?

AN accountability court has barred former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife from criticising the establishment...
After Bismah
27 Apr, 2024

After Bismah

BISMAH Maroof’s contribution to Pakistan cricket extends beyond the field. The 32-year old, Pakistan’s...
Business concerns
Updated 26 Apr, 2024

Business concerns

There is no doubt that these issues are impeding a positive business clime, which is required to boost private investment and economic growth.
Musical chairs
26 Apr, 2024

Musical chairs

THE petitioners are quite helpless. Yet again, they are being expected to wait while the bench supposed to hear...
Global arms race
26 Apr, 2024

Global arms race

THE figure is staggering. According to the annual report of Sweden-based think tank Stockholm International Peace...