In the small seaside village of Tandahar in Puri district’s Astaranga block, an elderly woman affectionately called ‘Benga Maa’ has become a symbol of grassroots environmental activism. Bengalata Rout, now in her senior years, has spent over two decades turning barren coastal land into lush green belts that protect villages from the fury of the sea.
From Super Cyclone to Super Change
Rout’s journey began in the aftermath of Odisha’s devastating 1999 super cyclone, which left a trail of destruction in its wake. Witnessing the devastation to paddy fields, betel farms, and fishing livelihoods, she decided to take action—armed with nothing more than saplings, basic tools, and an unwavering spirit.
“I wanted to make sure we never suffer like that again,” said Rout, recalling the moment that sparked her mission.
Forests Grown by Hand and Heart
Over the years, her solo effort evolved into a community-led green crusade. Rout has planted more than 50,000 trees, primarily casuarina (jhaun) and other species known for shielding against salt-laden winds and tidal surges. These forests now act as natural buffers, protecting Tandahar, Katakana, and Kalamkani from the increasing threats of climate change.
Living just 50 meters from the Bay of Bengal, Rout’s daily routine includes patrolling and planting trees along the shoreline. Her tireless dedication has not gone unnoticed—local women have joined her, turning this into a collective movement.
Recognised and Respected
Officials and environmental groups have acknowledged her transformative work. Sudarshan Dehuri, forest officer of the Konark range, said,
“The green cover she’s built has significantly reduced coastal erosion and storm impact.”
Environmental volunteer Subrata Swain added,
“She didn’t wait for aid or schemes. She took the first step herself—and that’s the power of her story.”
Today, Benga Maa’s forests stand as a living legacy of one woman’s resilience and her unwavering commitment to protecting her land, people, and future generations.
