Delhi Transport Corporation will cease paper pink tickets on August 1, requiring women to use the new Pink Saheli Smart Card for free bus travel. The move pushes digital payments and reshapes the long‑standing women‑only fare exemption.

Key Takeaways

  • Paper pink tickets end on August 1; only Pink Saheli Smart Card is valid.
  • Women without the card must purchase regular tickets and pay fare.
  • The policy is part of DTC’s broader digital‑transformation agenda.

Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) issued a circular announcing that, effective August 1, 2026, paper‑based pink tickets for women will be discontinued. Female commuters will now be required to carry and tap a “Pink Saheli Smart Card” (NCMC) to enjoy the free‑travel scheme on DTC and Delhi Integrated Multi‑Modal Transit System (DIMTS) cluster buses.

Background: The Pink Ticket Legacy

Introduced in 2005, pink tickets were a gender‑specific initiative aimed at encouraging women to use public buses by offering fare‑free travel for a defined period. Over two decades, the scheme helped millions of women save on commuting costs and boosted overall ridership. However, the reliance on paper tickets introduced logistical burdens, fraud risks, and limited data collection, prompting a shift toward a digital solution.

How the Pink Saheli Smart Card Works

The new smart card is a contactless NFC device that can be tapped at entry points across all DTC and DIMTS‑operated routes. It can be recharged online or at designated kiosks, and it not only grants free travel but also paves the way for personalized offers, real‑time journey alerts, and integration with future mobility services. By moving to a card‑based system, DTC expects to cut printing costs and gain actionable ridership analytics.

Implementation Challenges and Mitigation

Key challenges include card distribution logistics, digital literacy gaps, and ensuring access for women without smartphones or internet connectivity. DTC plans a city‑wide outreach campaign, free card issuance kiosks at major transit hubs, and partnerships with NGOs to reach underserved communities. A dedicated helpline will address card‑related issues during the transition period.

Implications for Delhi’s Transport Landscape

Experts view the Pink Saheli Smart Card as a pilot for a fully digitized, data‑driven public‑transport ecosystem. Successful rollout could set a precedent for other Indian states, enhancing women’s safety, reducing environmental impact through optimized services, and improving fiscal efficiency. The move aligns with Delhi’s broader smart‑city objectives and the national push for cashless public services.