After slipping below the surface of the Murray River on January 9, the 21-year-old is presumed dead.

But after five weeks Mr Pandit has still not been found, and his family have no answers.

Without a body, Mr Pandit's family is unable to put their child to rest. 

They believe without final blessings he will not be able to rest in peace. 

No parent should have to bury their child, but in these circumstances even that would be better than the reality they face.

It's a horrific situation, but sadly, the family is not alone in their grief. 

RELATED: 

Research by former Border Mail journalist and historian Howard Jones revealed in the past 173 years, more than 240 people have drowned in the Murray River in Albury-Wodonga, Lake Hume and Wodonga Creek. 

Hundreds of families who know the loss of having a loved one go swimming and never return.

It's a staggering figure that does not even encompass the people who drown downstream - like Melbourne's Leigh Marshall who died in the near Yarrawonga on Australia Day.

The sheer loss of life in our waterways is shocking.

It's easy to think that drownings only happen to inexperienced swimmers, people unsure about water or people who are drinking and taking risks.

But the historical society's research shows drowning can happen to everyone; born and bred locals, fit soldiers and experienced swimmers.

We're blessed to live in a region full of picturesque waterways that should be enjoyed - but it's important to bear the lessons of history in mind.

Mr Pandit's friend Emamul Milon has called for more signage to be placed along the Murray in areas where drownings have occurred, to show people the dangers of the river. 

Even without signs, we owe it to the drowned to remember as much as we love it, the mighty Murray is home to countless tragedies.

Receive our daily newsletter straight to your inbox each morning from The Border Mail. Sign up here.