Saheli Smart Card for Delhi Women: Steps to Apply, Eligibility and Benefits Explained

The Delhi government is preparing to launch the Saheli Smart Card , a new digital travel pass designed to offer free bus travel for women and transgender residents aged 12 and above. This initiative will cover all Delhi Transport Corporation ( DTC ) and cluster buses operating under the Delhi Transport Department. The move aims to streamline the free travel scheme launched in 2019 and improve transparency while promoting safe and accessible public transport.

What Is the Saheli Smart Card?

The Saheli Smart Card will be a digital travel pass bearing the cardholder’s name and photo, issued under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework. Once registered and activated, eligible users will enjoy unlimited free travel on DTC and cluster buses. The card will be rechargeable and can also be used for other transport services such as the Delhi Metro, though free travel benefits are limited to buses only.

Eligibility and Registration Process

Residents of Delhi who identify as women or transgender and are aged 12 years or above will be eligible for the Saheli Smart Card. To register, applicants must visit the official DTC portal and provide valid documents such as:

• Aadhaar card
• PAN card
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of residence in Delhi

Applicants must also select a participating bank during the registration process. After completing the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification at their chosen bank branch, the card will be issued and sent to the applicant’s registered address.

NCMC Integration and Expanded Use

The card will be part of the National Common Mobility Card ecosystem, allowing for integration across various modes of public transport. While the Saheli Card provides free access to buses, users can top-up the card to use it on systems like the Delhi Metro. Future plans aim to extend compatibility to autorickshaws and taxis, providing a unified and convenient commuting solution for Delhi’s residents.

Continued Use of Pink Tickets

Despite the launch of the Saheli Smart Card, the government has confirmed that the existing pink ticket system will continue for the time being. The new card is intended as an additional facility, not a replacement. Over time, however, officials indicate that the Saheli Smart Card will help phase out the paper ticket system, which Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has criticised for enabling corruption.

Improving Transparency and Preventing Pilferage

According to senior officials, the digital nature of the card will eliminate theft and misuse of the free travel scheme. The card system ensures that only eligible Delhi residents benefit from the scheme, addressing previous loopholes that allowed non-residents to access the free service.

Transport Minister Pankaj Singh also highlighted that future upgrades would enable users to purchase online tickets and discounted daily or monthly passes through a mobile app. This digitisation will offer greater control and convenience for the commuting public.

Card Issuance and Associated Costs

The government has clarified that no travel charges will be levied on commuters. However, issuing banks may apply a nominal fee for card issuance or maintenance based on their internal policies. In case of lost cards, users must notify the issuing bank and apply for a replacement following the bank’s standard terms and conditions.

Usage Trends and the Scheme’s Popularity

According to DTC data, the free travel scheme has witnessed consistent growth since its inception. Pink tickets accounted for:

• 25% of total sales in 2020–21
• 28% in 2021–22
• 33% in 2022–23
• 46% in 2023–24

This upward trend underscores the popularity and effectiveness of the initiative. During 2023–24, DTC recorded an average daily ridership of 26 lakh, while cluster buses reported 16.4 lakh riders per day.

Launch Timeline and Rollout

Although an exact rollout date has not been confirmed, DTC has already issued an expression of interest to implement the Saheli Smart Card project. Once launched, eligible users will be able to apply through the DTC portal and complete their KYC at their preferred partner bank.

The Saheli Smart Card marks a major step forward in the Delhi government’s efforts to enhance safety, accessibility, and affordability for women and transgender citizens using public transport. With digital integration, robust verification, and expanded use across different transit modes, the initiative promises to deliver a secure, inclusive, and future-ready commuting experience for Delhi’s residents.