Pink Saheli Card: Both the central and state governments are actively working to benefit women. The Delhi government has decided to make a significant change to its free bus travel scheme for women. Starting August 1, the ‘Pink Saheli’ smart card will become mandatory for free travel on DTC and cluster buses in Delhi. The current system of issuing pink paper tickets to women will be discontinued and replaced by the smart card system.
The government states that this new system will make free travel more transparent, curb the use of fake tickets, and ensure a digital record of journeys. Women will now need to tap their Pink Saheli smart card on the electronic ticket machine upon boarding the bus; the journey will be considered free only after the card is tapped. If a woman does not possess this card, she will have to purchase a ticket and pay the fare. If you are a resident of Delhi, this information is particularly relevant for you.
What changes from August 1?
Previously, under the Delhi government’s free bus travel scheme, women were issued a pink paper ticket by the conductor upon boarding. This ticket served as proof of travel, based on which the government subsequently made payments to bus operators; however, this entire system is now set to change.
Know the new rule
The pink paper ticket issued until July 31 will no longer be valid from August 1. The Pink Saheli smart card will be mandatory for free bus travel. Passengers must tap the card on the machine after boarding the bus; the journey will be considered free only after the card is tapped. In the absence of the card, a regular ticket must be purchased. This rule applies to both DTC and cluster buses.
What is the Pink Saheli Smart Card?
The Pink Saheli Smart Card is a special smart card issued for women, enabling them to avail the benefits of the Delhi government’s free bus travel scheme. This card is based on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) technology. This means that in the future, its utility will not be limited to buses alone; it could also be used for other public transport services and digital payments. The card will serve as a form of digital identification, and a complete electronic record of bus journeys will be maintained.
Who can get the Pink Saheli Smart Card made?
The government has established clear eligibility criteria for this scheme. To apply, a woman must be a resident of Delhi. Additionally, eligible transgender citizens of Delhi can also obtain this card.
Can women living outside Delhi apply?
Please note that if a woman’s permanent address is in Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, or any other state, she will not be eligible for the Pink Saheli Smart Card. This means the scheme applies exclusively to women residing in Delhi and eligible transgender citizens.
Is there any age or income limit?
Currently, there is no specific income limit set for this government scheme; it is not restricted to any particular income group. The primary requirement is simply being a resident of Delhi.
What documents are required to get the card made?
The following documents will be required when applying for the Pink Card: an Aadhaar card with a Delhi address, a mobile number linked to Aadhaar, OTP verification, and a passport-sized photograph. In some cases, additional documents for identity or address proof may also be requested.
Why is it necessary to link the mobile number with Aadhaar?
Identity verification during the Pink Card application process is conducted via OTP. Therefore, linking your Aadhaar card to your mobile number is mandatory. If your mobile number is not linked, you may need to update it first.
How is the card used on the bus?
After boarding the bus, tap your Pink Saheli Smart Card on the electronic machine. The machine will then record your journey, allowing you to travel for free without purchasing a ticket. This entire process takes just a few seconds.
What happens if the card is not with you?
If you do not have the Pink Saheli Smart Card or fail to tap it on the machine, you will not be able to avail the benefit of free travel. In such a scenario, you will have to purchase a ticket and pay the fare, just like regular passengers. Does the card need to be recharged?
There is no need to load money onto the card or recharge it for free bus travel. However, since this is an NCMC-based smart card, you will need to add a separate balance to use it for the Delhi Metro, Namo Bharat (RRTS), or other paid services.
Where can one apply offline?
The government has set up approximately 50 official centres across Delhi where women can apply offline. These include DTC depots, SDM offices, special assistance centres, and authorised application counters. Applications can be submitted at these locations along with the necessary documents.
Simple application process
The following process is generally followed for offline applications:
First, fill out the application form.
Next, submit your Aadhaar card and other documents.
Verify your mobile number via OTP.
Provide a passport-sized photograph.
The documents will then be verified.
The smart card will be issued once verification is complete.
What women should keep in mind:
Try to get your card made before August 1st. If you are travelling, always carry the card with you. Tap the card on the machine as soon as you board the bus. Additionally, your mobile number must be linked to your Aadhaar. Ensure all your documents are accurate and up to date. If the card is lost, contact the relevant centre immediately.
Conclusion
The Delhi government’s free bus travel scheme is now entering a new digital phase. Starting August 1st, women will be required to use the ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card’ to travel for free. The ‘Pink Tickets’ paper tickets will be discontinued, and tapping the card on the machine upon boarding the bus will be mandatory. This facility will be available exclusively to women residing in Delhi and eligible transgender citizens. Therefore, if you wish to avail the benefits of this scheme, ensure you get your ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card’ made in time, along with the necessary documents.