A sorrowful tragedy has struck Northeast Delhi with the drowning of a 45-year-old man, whose body was recovered on Friday after an intense two-day search. The deceased, identified as Ombir from Garhi Mendu village, had been missing since Wednesday when he slipped into the surging Yamuna while attempting to bring his cow to safety.

Relatives explained that Ombir had already managed to ensure the safe evacuation of his family members and most of their household belongings as water levels rose around their home. However, one task remained—the cow he cared for and relied upon for livelihood. Driven by responsibility and affection, Ombir chose to return, believing he could also rescue the animal. His cousin Meginder offered a painful recollection: “After dropping his family and household items, he went back for the cow. While walking, his foot slipped and he was washed away. Some people witnessed it, but the current was too strong for anyone to help.”

Witnesses described the scene in helpless tones. As Ombir tried to make his way along the riverbank, the treacherous ground betrayed him. In a matter of moments, the surging Yamuna had swallowed him, while bystanders, paralysed by the overpowering current, could only watch. His last act of bravery was for his cow, an animal his family says he saw as indispensable both emotionally and practically.

Relentless Search and Recovery

Once news of the incident spread, search operations were launched immediately. Teams from the Delhi Police, the District Disaster Management Authority, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local villagers scoured the stretch of river over two consecutive days. Each hour raised hopes of a rescue, but as time passed, despair began to weigh heavily on his family. Finally, on Friday around 11 am, the search parties located and recovered his body not far from the village itself. DCP (Northeast) Ashish Mishra confirmed the discovery, marking a tragic end to the desperate efforts.

For his grieving family, Ombir’s recovery brought both closure and heartbreak. He had been the steady earning hand at home, working as a security guard with a private company. Now, his wife, children, and relatives are left with memories of his courage and sacrifice in choosing to risk his life for his cattle.

Community in Mourning

Garhi Mendu village has been wrapped in grief since the incident. Neighbours remembered Ombir as a simple, hardworking man who prioritised his family and livestock above all else. His loss has left the community shaken, with villagers pointing to the inadequacy of safety measures along the Yamuna’s flooded stretches. While his cow survived the ordeal, Ombir’s sacrifice has left behind enduring questions about the unseen dangers faced by residents during the monsoon season.

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