New Smart Cards to Enable Free Travel for Women in Delhi

Delhi’s women and transgender residents will soon enjoy free travel on public buses through a new smart card scheme, announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta in her first Budget speech. This initiative aims to replace the previous ‘pink ticket’ scheme, offering a more modern and streamlined solution for travel.

The government plans to introduce 'Saheli Cards', which will be issued as smart cards requiring proof of residence. These cards are expected to be operational by August 15, with a tender already underway for banks to handle issuance and management.

Under the new system, two types of cards will be available: KYC-verified and non-KYC versions. Both will be compatible with the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), allowing seamless travel across buses and the Delhi Metro. Women aged 12 and above can use these cards, which will only require proof of Delhi residency. Non-KYC cards can be obtained at Metro stations by presenting residential proof, whereas KYC cards involve a more detailed verification process to includes personal details and a photograph.

Chief Minister Gupta emphasised that these welfare schemes should benefit true residents of Delhi, contrasting them with previous allegations of misappropriation under the AAP government. She stated, “We are committed to removing corruption in subsidy and welfare schemes, especially in the transport sector.”

The initiative also includes the development of a dedicated online portal for registration, which will be shared with banks during the card issuance process. Additionally, DTC plans to collaborate with Metro stations to facilitate quick and easy card distribution.

This new era of transit benefits underscores the government’s focus on providing hassle-free, exclusive access to Delhi’s residents, ensuring that welfare benefits are enjoyed only by eligible individuals.