In a major move towards empowering women and improving urban mobility, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday launched the ‘Saheli Smart Card’, a new digital pass that will allow women and transgender individuals to ride free of cost on DTC and Cluster buses across the national capital.
The initiative replaces the existing pink paper ticket system, which had come under fire for corruption and inefficiency, with a secure, digital, and trackable solution under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework.
What is Saheli Smart Card?
The Saheli Smart Card is a personalized digital travel pass with the user’s name and photo. It enables women and transgender residents aged 12 and above to travel free of charge on all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and Cluster buses. The card can also be topped up and used on other transport modes—but free rides apply only to buses under this scheme.
How to Apply for Saheli Smart Card?
Eligible citizens can follow these steps:
1. Be a resident of Delhi (12+ years of age)
2. Register online through the DTC portal
3. Select a participating bank for KYC
4. Visit the bank branch with:
Aadhaar card
PAN card
Proof of Delhi residence
Passport-size photo
Other KYC documents
Post-verification, the bank will mail the activated card to your registered address.
Important Notes
DTC will not issue any cards directly.
The card must be activated through the DTC’s Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) before first use.
While travel is free, banks may charge a nominal card issuance or maintenance fee.
In case of loss, users must contact the bank for re-issuance.
Modern Transport, Safer Commute
CM Rekha Gupta stated that the card would not only cut corruption but also help modernize Delhi’s public transport system. With 3,266 active buses (including 1,950 electric buses), the DTC operates across 44 depots in Delhi and Noida, offering one of the largest public bus fleets in India.
