In the heart of Delhi, a dedicated team of 15 divers is undertaking the grim task of retrieving bodies from the city’s heavily polluted waterbodies. These unsung heroes have already recovered 102 corpses in 2025, working under challenging conditions without adequate protective gear. The divers, who are descendants of farmers from the Yamuna floodplain, have turned to this perilous occupation after farming was banned due to severe pollution. Their work environment is fraught with dangers, including exposure to toxic chemicals, the risk of snake bites, and navigating treacherous currents. Despite these hazards, the divers continue their essential work, driven by necessity and a lack of alternative employment opportunities. The ban on farming has left them with few options, forcing them to rely on their diving skills for survival. This situation highlights the broader environmental and socio-economic challenges facing Delhi, where pollution not only affects public health but also disrupts traditional livelihoods. The divers’ story underscores the urgent need for comprehensive environmental policies that address pollution and provide sustainable employment alternatives for affected communities. As Delhi grapples with these issues, the efforts of these divers serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of environmental degradation and the resilience required to navigate such adversities.