Delhi Launches ‘Saheli Card’ for Free Bus Travel

The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has announced a new ‘Saheli Smart Card’ for women and transgender persons to travel free on Delhi buses. This new system will replace the pink ticket scheme and will only be available to people with a Delhi address and Aadhaar card. The change aims to stop misuse and improve how the free travel scheme works.

Free Travel Only for Delhi Residents

Earlier, all women, no matter where they lived, could get free travel on Delhi buses by using pink tickets. But now, only those who live in Delhi and can show a valid address proof and Aadhaar card will get the new Saheli Card. These cards will have the user’s name and photo and can be applied for online through the DTC website. The cards will be sent by post after approval.

Why the Change Was Made

Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh said that fake pink tickets were being made, and many were used to wrongly claim money from the government. He said, “We want a system that is clean and fair. Free rides should go only to those who really use them.” The Saheli Card will help track actual users and stop fraud. It will also make the system more transparent and accountable.

Smart, Modern, and Digital Travel

The Saheli Card is part of a bigger plan to make public transport in Delhi modern and digital. It will work like a smart card and will follow the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) system. This means it can be used not just on DTC buses but also in Delhi Metro, feeder buses, parking, and even for small payments in shops.

DTC is also setting up over 12,000 card readers, QR-code-based ticketing, and apps that let users recharge cards, plan trips, and check balance. These services will connect with apps made along with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).

More Card Options for All Users

Besides the Saheli Card, DTC will launch two other cards

• Zero KYC Card – No ID proof needed, fast to get, usable across travel networks.
• Full KYC Card – Given by banks after full ID check, with more secure features.

These will help people who don’t want to apply for the Saheli Card but still want easy, cashless travel.

Who Is Left Out?

People living in Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, or other NCR cities will not be able to get free rides under this scheme, even if they work in Delhi. However, they can still buy and use the card for regular travel (without free benefits).