The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) is introducing the ‘Saheli Smart Card’ to replace …
…the pink ticket system, enabling free bus travel exclusively for women and transgender residents of Delhi.
Saheli Smart Card:
- Eligibility: Only women and transgender persons aged 12 and above who are bona fide Delhi residents can apply for the Saheli Smart Card. Applicants must provide Aadhaar and address proof and complete a KYC (Know Your Customer) process at a participating bank.
- Personalization: The card is personalized—featuring the user’s name and photo—and linked to Delhi’s residential database. Free bus rides under the welfare scheme are limited to those holding this card.
- Application: Applications are processed online via the DTC portal. After successful verification, the card is dispatched to the applicant’s registered address.
- Purpose: The shift aims to prevent misuse associated with the earlier “pink ticket” paper system and ensures benefits reach intended Delhi residents—not those from neighboring NCR cities. The digital system also enables real-time tracking and reduces fraud or improper claims.
Connected & Cashless Public Transport
- NCMC Integration: The Saheli Smart Card is built on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) platform. This allows for interoperability—not just across DTC and cluster buses, but potentially also the Delhi Metro, feeder buses, select parking spots, and even small shops, depending on the card’s configuration.
- Other Smart Cards: DTC will simultaneously offer two more card types:
- Zero KYC Card: For travelers (no identity verification), usable across networks, handy for visitors or those needing easy issuance with limited features.
- Full KYC Card: Issued by banks after full KYC, this card can be used across the NCMC ecosystem, offering maximal compatibility and regulatory compliance.
- Digital Fare Collection: Over 12,000 new card readers/validators, cashless QR-code based ticketing, mobile apps, and vending machines are being deployed for seamless, fast, and transparent fare collection. Tap-in/tap-out with the card will become standard, mirroring how smart cards work in metros worldwide.
- Mobile Apps and QR Tickets: Commuters will be able to recharge cards, check balances, and plan trips via apps developed in partnership with DMRC and other agencies.
- Integration with NCR: The modernization includes efforts to blend with Delhi Metro and NCR Regional Rapid Transit services, featuring features such as QR-code-based tickets and unified payment solutions.
Impact and Rollout
- The Saheli Smart Card enhances security, reduces misuse, and shifts Delhi’s buses to a modern, digital ecosystem.
- It is part of Delhi’s ambitious project to create a fully integrated, cashless, and convenient travel experience—combining buses, metro, and last-mile connectivity while ensuring targeted welfare delivery.
- Those who do not qualify for the Saheli Card, including residents outside Delhi, can still get other NCMC-enabled cards for regular travel but without the free ride benefit.
This system marks a significant leap toward digitized, efficient public transport while maintaining the government’s commitment to social welfare for Delhi’s women and transgender community..for state news click www.eminentnews.com
