Rules Changing from September 1: This Step Now Essential for Free Bus Travel in Delhi

Delhi Bus Pink Smart Card: The rules regarding free bus travel for women in Delhi are set to change. The facility of using paper 'Pink Tickets' will remain valid until August 31, 2026; thereafter, the 'Saheli Pink Smart Card' will be mandatory for travel.

Delhi Free Bus Service: If you travel for free on Delhi's DTC or Cluster buses, this news is crucial for you. A major change is coming soon to the rules of the free bus travel scheme for women in Delhi. Eligible women have so far been traveling for free using paper Pink Tickets on DTC and Delhi Cluster buses, but this facility will not continue indefinitely.

The Delhi government has decided to extend the paper Pink Ticket facility until August 31, 2026. After this date, women will require the 'Saheli Pink Smart Card' to travel by bus.

When will the Saheli Pink Smart Card become mandatory?

The Delhi government has clarified that starting September 1, 2026, eligible women must use the Saheli Pink Smart Card to avail the benefit of free bus travel. Consequently, if you do not possess this card, you may have to pay the standard fare on DTC or Cluster buses. For now, you can continue to travel for free using the Pink Ticket until August 31.

Number of Pink Smart Cards issued so far

According to the Delhi Transport Department, approximately 1,813,866 Pink Saheli Smart Cards have been issued to date. The government had initially set the deadline for making the card mandatory for August 1, but this was subsequently extended.

How will the Saheli Pink Smart Card work?

The Pink Saheli Smart Card is based on the National Common Mobility Card system. Eligible women will need to tap their card on the machine while traveling on the bus to avail the free travel benefit. However, if the card is used for the Metro, Namo Bharat, or other retail payments, a separate payment or balance may be required. What should you do to get the card made?

According to officials, you should verify your eligibility and the required documents for the 'Saheli Pink Smart Card' through official DTC channels. There are over 50 authorized centers in Delhi for issuing the card; therefore, to avoid any inconvenience, keep the necessary documents regarding your identity and address ready beforehand.