In a groundbreaking move to promote safe, inclusive, and accessible public transport, the Delhi Government has launched the Saheli Smart Card – a digital travel pass offering free bus travel for women and transgender residents in the city. Announced by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, this initiative replaces the old paper-based pink ticket system and is a significant step toward empowering women and the transgender community while modernising Delhi’s transport ecosystem.
| Scheme | Saheli Smart Card |
| Type | Govt Schemes for Women’s and Transgenders |
| State | Delhi |
| Applicable | Women’s and Transgenders of Delhi |
| Benefits | Free Bus Travel |
What is the Saheli Smart Card?
The Saheli Smart Card is a personalised digital travel pass issued under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework. It is equipped with the cardholder’s name and photograph, ensuring secure, misuse-proof travel access.
It allows women and transgender residents aged 12 and above to travel free of cost in all DTC (Delhi Transport Corporation) and Cluster buses within the capital city.
Unlike the earlier system of distributing paper tickets, this smart card provides a seamless, digital, and secure travel experience.
Key Benefits of Saheli Smart Card
- Free Bus Travel: Enjoy unlimited free rides in DTC and Cluster buses within Delhi.
- Personalised and Secure: Includes the cardholder’s name and photograph to prevent misuse.
- Reusable and Rechargeable: Though travel is free in DTC/Cluster buses, the card also supports recharge for use on other public transport modes.
- Interoperable: Built on the National Common Mobility Card platform, it is compatible with other NCMC-based services.
- One Card, Multiple Uses: Besides bus travel, it can be used for other transit payments as per the bank’s features.
- Promotes Inclusivity: Specifically designed to support women and the transgender community.
Why Saheli Smart Card is a Game-Changer
With over 3,200+ DTC and Cluster buses (including electric and CNG), Delhi is rapidly enhancing its transport infrastructure. The Saheli Smart Card empowers women and transgender individuals by:
- Ensuring safe and independent mobility
- Reducing daily travel expenses
- Encouraging public transport usage
- Promoting environment-friendly travel
Features of Saheli Smart Card
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Women and transgender persons aged 12+ and residents of Delhi |
| Mode of Travel Covered | DTC and Cluster buses (Free) |
| Card Format | Digital, personalised with name and photo |
| Issue Platform | Issued under the NCMC framework |
| Application Mode | Online registration only |
| Activation | Through Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) of DTC |
| Cost | Travel is free; banks may charge nominal fees for issuance and maintenance |
Who is Eligible for the Saheli Smart Card?
To be eligible for the Saheli Smart Card:
- The applicant must be a woman or a transgender individual
- Must be a bona fide resident of Delhi
- Must be 12 years of age or older
- Must have valid address proof in Delhi
Documents Required
To apply for the Saheli Smart Card, you will need:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Proof of residence in Delhi
- Passport-size photograph
- Any other documents as per the chosen bank’s KYC norms
How to Apply for the Saheli Smart Card
The application process for the Saheli Smart Card is completely online, followed by KYC at the selected bank. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official DTC portal
- Select Saheli Smart Card registration
- Fill in your personal details
- Choose a participating bank from the list
- Visit the selected bank branch for full KYC verification
- Carry required documents (listed below)
- After verification, your Saheli Smart Card will be dispatched to your registered residential address
- The card will be activated through the Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS)
Note: Cards will not be issued directly by DTC. All cards are issued post-bank KYC.
What If You Lose Your Saheli Smart Card?
In case your Saheli Smart Card is lost or stolen:
- Immediately report the loss to the issuing bank
- As per the bank’s policy, a replacement card may be issued