Pink Saheli Card Becomes Must-Have for Free Bus Rides in Delhi

Women living in Delhi will now need a Pink Saheli Smart Card to get free rides on DTC and cluster buses, as per a new Delhi Transport Department notice.

The rule applies to both AC and non-AC buses run under the DTC and cluster bus system. Women who live in Delhi and qualify for the free bus travel scheme can use the service by showing their Pink Saheli Smart Card, which works through the National Common Mobility Card system.

Passengers can also choose to pay the regular bus fare and buy a ticket instead of using the free travel scheme.

The new rule comes after changes were made to the Delhi Transport Corporation (Free and Concessional Passes) Regulations, 2026. The rule also covers transgender people who live in Delhi.

People who do not qualify for free travel can still use DTC and cluster buses by paying the required fare.

The Pink Saheli Smart Card was launched in March 2026. It replaced the paper pink tickets that were earlier used by women for free bus rides. The Transport Department had earlier said that the card would become required for free travel from September 30.

The Delhi government is also working to make more women aware of the new system. Information about the card will be shared through announcements at bus depots and on buses, along with social media, newspapers and other channels.

So far, around 19 lakh women have used the smart card since its launch.

Women who have not applied for the card yet can still register and get the card, officials said.