- Saheli Smart Card offers free travel for Delhi women on DTC and Cluster buses with easy online registration.
- Card works as a National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), usable on metro and rapid trains, though free rides apply only on certain buses.
- Only Delhi resident women aged 12 and above are eligible; card is free with minimal bank fees and requires basic documents.
In a major step towards easing daily travel for women, the Delhi government is set to launch the Saheli Smart Card, aimed at providing free and hassle-free travel on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and Cluster buses.
The new card will be available to women aged 12 and above residing in Delhi and is expected to replace the existing pink ticket system currently used for free travel. Officials say the smart card will make the process more streamlined, reducing manual checks and improving convenience for daily commuters.
What is Saheli Smart Card and Who Can Get It?
Previously, women travelling on DTC and Cluster buses received pink tickets as a travel pass, but the new Saheli Smart Card works digitally to provide unlimited free rides on these buses without the need for tickets each time. This card is a type of National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), which means you can use it on other transport modes like Delhi Metro and Rapid trains by topping up the card. However, free travel benefits are limited only to certain buses.
Here are basic eligibility points:
- Must be a woman or transgender individual aged 12 or above.
- Permanent resident of Delhi.
- No income criteria are required.
Key Benefits of Saheli Smart Card
- Free travel on DTC and Cluster buses.
- Card acts as a smart mobility pass—no need to buy tickets for every journey.
- Can be topped up and used on metro and rapid train services, though without free travel there.
- Easy online application and doorstep delivery.
Also Read – Delhi Electric Vehicle Interconnector Scheme (DEVI)
How to Apply for Saheli Smart Card in Delhi?
Step 1: Registration
Visit the official Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) portal dedicated to Saheli Smart Card registration. During registration, select the bank through which you want to issue your card.
After registration, visit the chosen bank branch with the necessary documents for KYC verification:
- Aadhaar card (proof of identity and permanent Delhi residence).
- Residence certificate.
- PAN card.
- Passport size photograph.
Once KYC is complete, the bank will process and send your Saheli Smart Card directly to your home address.
Step 2: Card Activation
After receiving the card, you will need to activate it using DTC’s Automated Fare Collection System (AFCS). Once activated, your card can be used instantly on buses. The card can also be topped up for use on other transport services.
Additional Details
- Is the card free? Yes, Delhi government provides the card free of cost. However, the bank may charge a small maintenance fee and delivery charges for sending the card to your home address.
- Lost card? If your Saheli Smart Card is lost, you can request a replacement from the issuing bank by paying the applicable fee. The old card will be deactivated.
- Where can you use the card? Free travel applies only on Delhi DTC and Cluster buses. You can use the card on Metro and Rapid trains after topping up, but free rides aren’t included there.
- Is it available for women from NCR areas? Currently, only women who are permanent residents of Delhi can apply. There may be future considerations for NCR residents working in Delhi.
Future Plans and Digital Convenience
Delhi government plans to launch a mobile app for easier online ticket purchasing and monthly or daily passes, which will further simplify travel for Saheli Smart Card holders.