When he reached Ward No. 2 of Gunagari, there was a stir among the locals. Some from the verandas of their houses, some from temporary shelters, and others standing in waist-deep water informed others. Many locals welcomed him addressing him as 'Dadu'.
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman first spoke with the locals. Later, he went to a temporary shelter near Labu's shop and handed over cash and relief materials to hundreds of families who had taken shelter there for several days.
After distributing relief, he also went to the waterlogged houses. Wading through waist-deep water, he reached house after house, inquired about children, the elderly, and other affected people, and handed over assistance to them.
Local resident Ahmed Hossain said that although many were waterlogged for days, many only took pictures and left. However, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman came to the front of their houses and inquired about them.
Farasha Begum, who was in the shelter, said that they came to a safe shelter as water rose up to the roof of their house. He came, listened to them, and provided assistance.
After the relief activities, speaking to journalists, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, “I did not come here to do politics. I came to stand by the distressed people. I came to see the suffering of the affected people with my own eyes and to listen to them.”
He informed that the flood situation in Chattogram was discussed in the National Parliament, and the government also gave a statement on this matter.
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said that without being on the ground, the true picture of people's suffering cannot be understood. He called for ensuring rapid rescue, rehabilitation, and necessary assistance for the affected people.
Expressing deep sorrow for those killed in the recent floods, landslides, and other accidents, he prayed for the forgiveness of their souls.
After his speech, he again went forward to talk to the waterlogged people. Many locals met with him, informed him of their losses, and appealed for help.
