Delhi Free Bus Scheme 2026: Pink Saheli Smart Card Registration, Eligibility, Benefits, Documents & Latest Updates
Last Updated: June 2026
The Delhi Government has introduced the Pink Saheli Smart Card to modernize the free bus travel facility available to women in the national capital. The smart card replaces the traditional pink paper ticket system with a digital, technology-enabled solution based on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework.
The initiative aims to make public transportation more transparent, secure, and convenient while continuing the free travel benefit for eligible women and transgender residents of Delhi. The Pink Saheli Smart Card was launched on 2 March 2026, and distribution began from 3 March 2026 through designated centres across Delhi.
Today, the scheme is one of the largest women-focused public transport initiatives in India and has already benefited lakhs of commuters across the city. According to official statements, more than 8.4 lakh Pink Saheli Smart Cards had been issued by May 2026.
Delhi Pink Saheli Smart Card 2026 – Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Delhi Free Bus Travel Scheme |
| Smart Card Name | Pink Saheli Smart Card |
| Launch Date | 2 March 2026 |
| Distribution Start Date | 3 March 2026 |
| Implementing Agency | Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) |
| Beneficiaries | Women and Transgender Residents of Delhi |
| Benefit | Free Travel on DTC and Cluster Buses |
| Card Type | National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) |
| Registration Mode | Primarily Offline |
| Official Website | dtc.delhi.gov.in |
Latest Updates (June 2026)
Major Developments
- Pink Saheli Smart Card launched on 2 March 2026.
- Distribution started on 3 March 2026 through designated centres.
- More than 8.4 lakh cards have already been issued.
- Distribution is currently taking place through dozens of centres across Delhi.
- Pink paper tickets remain valid during the transition period.
- The government has indicated that free travel benefits are expected to move gradually towards the smart-card-based system in the future.
What is the Pink Saheli Smart Card?
The Pink Saheli Smart Card is a personalized mobility card introduced by the Delhi Government for women and transgender residents who use public buses.
The card contains:
- Beneficiary photograph
- Identification details
- QR code verification
- Contactless tap-and-go technology
- Digital travel records
- NCMC compatibility
Unlike the old paper ticket system, the smart card can be used repeatedly and supports a more efficient verification process.
Why Was the Smart Card Introduced?
The earlier free travel facility relied on paper-based pink tickets issued during every journey.
While the system helped millions of commuters, authorities identified several operational challenges:
- Manual verification process
- Paper consumption
- Difficulty tracking usage
- Limited transparency
- Risk of duplication or misuse
The Pink Saheli Smart Card has been introduced to address these issues through digital verification and improved record management.
Key Benefits of the Delhi Free Bus Scheme
1. Free Bus Travel
Eligible beneficiaries can travel free of cost on:
- Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) Buses
- Delhi Cluster Buses
2. Reduced Transportation Expenses
The scheme helps many students, working women, and daily commuters reduce their monthly transportation costs.
3. Convenient Digital Verification
The smart card simplifies identity verification and travel recording.
4. Safer and More Accessible Mobility
The initiative supports greater participation in education, employment, healthcare access, and daily activities by reducing travel expenses.
5. Reusable Smart Card System
Unlike paper tickets, the smart card can be used repeatedly for eligible journeys.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should meet the following conditions:
Eligible Applicants
- Women residing in Delhi
- Transgender residents of Delhi
Residency Requirement
Applicants should ordinarily reside in Delhi and possess valid identification documents.
Students Can Apply
School-going girls and college students meeting the eligibility conditions may also apply.
Note: Applicants should verify the latest eligibility requirements at their nearest registration centre before applying.
Documents Required
Applicants may be asked to provide:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | Identity Verification |
| Aadhaar-linked Mobile Number | OTP Verification |
| Voter ID (if applicable) | Additional Identification |
| Address Proof (if required) | Residency Verification |
| Additional Photo ID (if requested) | Supporting Verification |
Applicants should carry original documents during registration.
Where is Free Travel Available?
Covered Under the Scheme
DTC Buses
Delhi Cluster Buses
Not Covered Under Free Travel Benefit
Delhi Metro
Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS)
However, the Pink Saheli Smart Card is based on the NCMC platform and may be used on supported transport systems after recharge wherever applicable. The free travel benefit itself is limited to eligible bus services.
How to Apply for the Pink Saheli Smart Card
Offline Registration Process
Step 1: Visit an authorised registration centre.
Step 2: Carry the required documents.
Step 3: Complete Aadhaar-based verification.
Step 4: Submit your details.
Step 5: Photo capture and processing.
Step 6: Receive your Pink Saheli Smart Card.
Registration Centres
Cards are distributed through authorised centres across Delhi, including:
- DTC Pass Sections
- District Magistrate Offices
- Sub-Divisional Magistrate Offices
- Designated DTC Depots
- Special Registration Camps
Distribution infrastructure has expanded significantly since launch.
How to Use the Card
After receiving the card:
- Board an eligible bus.
- Tap the card on the ticketing machine.
- Verification is completed digitally.
- Continue your journey without purchasing a ticket.
Beneficiaries should carry the card whenever travelling under the scheme.
Pink Ticket vs Pink Saheli Smart Card
| Feature | Pink Paper Ticket | Pink Saheli Smart Card |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Paper Ticket | Smart Card |
| Verification | Manual | Digital |
| Reusable | No | Yes |
| QR Verification | No | Yes |
| Travel Tracking | Limited | Available |
| Paper Usage | High | Reduced |
| Transparency | Basic | Improved |
Are Pink Tickets Still Valid?
Yes.
The Delhi Transport Corporation has clarified that women can continue to use the existing pink paper ticket system during the transition period while obtaining their Pink Saheli Smart Cards. Beneficiaries do not need to panic or rush immediately, as distribution is being carried out gradually across the city.
Common Questions Applicants Ask
What if I do not have the smart card yet?
You can continue to use the existing pink ticket facility during the transition period.
Is the card free?
The card is being issued free of cost to eligible beneficiaries under the scheme.
Is Metro travel free?
No. Free travel is available only on DTC and Cluster buses.
Can students apply?
Eligible school and college-going girls may apply if they meet the required conditions.
Is Aadhaar required?
Aadhaar-based verification is generally used during the registration process.
Helpline and Contact Details
| Contact Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Pink Card Helpline | 8744073213 |
| DTC Contact Number | 011-23752769 |
| DTC Helpline | 011-23370236 |
| bus-pass@dtc.nic.in |
Conclusion
The Pink Saheli Smart Card represents a major upgrade to Delhi’s free bus travel initiative. By replacing paper-based verification with a digital smart-card system, the government aims to improve transparency, convenience, and efficiency while continuing to support affordable public transportation for women and transgender residents.
Beneficiaries who regularly use DTC and Cluster buses should consider obtaining the Pink Saheli Smart Card and stay updated through official DTC announcements for future changes to the scheme.
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