The Delhi government is transitioning its iconic free bus travel scheme for women from paper tickets to a digital smart card system. Starting in January 2026, the Pink Saheli Card will be mandatory for any woman or girl (aged 12 and above) to avail of zero-fare travel on DTC and cluster buses.
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This shift aims to eliminate paper waste, reduce misuse, and provide the government with accurate data for better transport planning.
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1. Key Policy Changes
| Feature | New “Pink Saheli” Card (2026) | Old Pink Ticket System (2019–2025) |
| Format | Digital Smart Card (NCMC compliant) | Paper-based single-ride tickets |
| Mandatory ID | Delhi Aadhaar Card (Address must be in Delhi) | None (Self-declaration) |
| Method | Tap on Electronic Ticketing Machine (ETM) | Physical collection from conductor |
| Eligibility | Delhi Residents only (Female/Transgender) | Open to all women in Delhi |
2. How to Apply & Where
The government has partnered with private vendors (including Airtel and Muffin Payments Banks) to manage the rollout.
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Counters: Dedicated application desks are being set up at DM & SDM offices, bus depots, and Common Service Centres (CSCs).
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Documents Needed: * Aadhaar card (with a Delhi address).
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Passport-size photograph.
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Mobile number (for OTP verification).
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Launch Date: Distribution of cards begins in the first week of January; the mandatory rule is expected to be enforced after January 14, 2026.
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3. Three New Card Categories
The Transport Department is introducing a tiered card system to cover all commuters:
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Pink Saheli Card: Exclusively for free travel for Delhi women/transgender residents.
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Special Concession Card: For senior citizens, PwD, sportspersons, and war widows.
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General Smart Card: A prepaid card for all other commuters (minimum cost ₹120), similar to a Delhi Metro card.
Note on Interoperability: While the Pink Saheli Card is built on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) platform, its use for free travel on the Delhi Metro is still under discussion and has not yet been finalized….
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