Archive · 21 Sep 2026
Delhi Women Must Get Saheli Cards For Free Bus Travel
Delhi is changing how some passengers get free bus rides.
From 1 October 2026, eligible women and transgender residents will need a Saheli Pink Smart Card.
The card can be used for free travel on Delhi Transport Corporation and Cluster buses.
Until 30 September 2026, passengers can still use the paper-based pink ticket system.
People aged five or older can apply with their Aadhaar and linked mobile number.
They can apply at certain government or transport offices, or register online.
The first card is free, while replacing a lost or damaged card costs ₹59.
The card can also be used for Delhi Metro and Regional Rapid Transit System travel, but those journeys are not free.
Free travel on Delhi Transport Corporation and Cluster buses will require a Saheli Pink Smart Card from 1 October 2026.
The paper-based pink ticket system has been extended until 30 September 2026.
More than 18.5 lakh Saheli Pink Smart Cards have reportedly been issued since the card launched on 2 March 2026.
Women and transgender residents of Delhi aged five or above can apply using Aadhaar and an Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
The first card is free, replacements cost ₹59, and the card is valid for five years.
- Who
- Women and transgender residents of Delhi aged five or above are eligible; more than 18.5 lakh cards have been issued.
- What
- The Saheli Pink Smart Card will become necessary for free travel on Delhi Transport Corporation and Cluster buses.
- When
- The requirement begins on 1 October 2026; paper-based pink tickets remain available until 30 September 2026.
- Where
- Delhi Transport Corporation and Cluster buses; the card can also be used on Delhi Metro and Regional Rapid Transit System services.
- Why
- The card is being used to provide and verify free bus travel for eligible passengers.
- Mandatory from
- 1 October 2026
- Paper-ticket extension
- Through 30 September 2026
- Cards issued
- More than 18.5 lakh
- Eligible applicants
- Women and transgender residents of Delhi aged five or above
- First-card fee
- Free
- Replacement fee
- ₹59, including GST
- Validity
- Five years from issuance
- Other uses
- Delhi Metro and Regional Rapid Transit System travel, with users paying through a topped-up balance