Delhi Rolls Out Saheli Smart Card: Free Bus Travel for Women and Transgender Residents
In a bold move to advance inclusivity and gender equality, the Government of Delhi has launched the Saheli Smart Card, a free bus pass specifically for women and transgender individuals. The initiative is part of a broader effort to create a safer, more accessible public transportation system for underrepresented and often vulnerable communities within the National Capital Territory (NCT).
The Saheli Smart Card enables eligible users to travel free of charge on all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and Cluster buses operating across the city. This rollout comes as a significant leap in modernizing fare systems and promoting gender-inclusive mobility across the urban transit network.
Empowering Mobility for Delhi’s Marginalized Groups
Designed under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework, the Saheli Smart Card not only digitizes the fare system but also enhances security, convenience, and user control. Open to female and transgender Delhi residents aged 12 and above, the smart card aims to remove financial barriers and ensure safe, dignified transport access for thousands of daily commuters.
According to Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot, “The Saheli Smart Card is a progressive step that ensures our transport system reflects the inclusivity and safety our city promises to all its residents.”
Features and Benefits of the Saheli Smart Card
The Saheli Smart Card replaces paper-based passes and is integrated with user-specific data, including name and photograph. This personalization helps prevent misuse while enabling seamless validation through DTC’s Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS).
Key benefits include:
- Free unlimited rides on all DTC and Cluster buses.
- Personalized and secure usage.
- Compatibility with other NCMC-based services in the future.
- Rechargeable for use in future fare-integrated services.
- Distributed via partner banks, with nominal issuance fees (subject to bank policies).
Though travel on buses is free, users may incur a one-time card issuance fee, varying by the issuing financial institution.
Simple Application Process for Eligible Residents
The Delhi government has emphasized simplicity in the application process. Women and transgender individuals must provide the following documents to apply:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Proof of Delhi Residency (ration card, utility bill, voter ID, etc.)
- One passport-size photo
- Additional Know Your Customer (KYC) documentation as per the issuing bank’s guidelines
Once approved, the smart card will be delivered to the applicant’s registered address. Activation is completed via DTC’s AFCS kiosks or designated centers.
Partnership with Banks for Smooth Rollout
To ensure efficient distribution, the Delhi Transport Department has invited expressions of interest from public and private sector banks to issue and manage the Saheli Smart Cards. Banks play a vital role in identity verification, smart card issuance, recharge services, and backend data management.
This collaboration not only supports a smoother rollout but also aligns with India’s broader Digital India and smart city initiatives, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency in government services.
Lost Card? Here’s What to Do
In the event a Saheli Smart Card is lost or stolen, users must report the incident immediately to the issuing bank’s customer support or visit the nearest branch. Most banks will issue a replacement card after standard verification and deactivation of the previous card. This ensures both the security of the user and the continued provision of services.
A Milestone for Delhi’s Public Transport Evolution
Delhi’s DTC network, which currently operates over 3,200 buses, including a growing fleet of electric and CNG-powered vehicles, serves millions of commuters daily. The Saheli Smart Card initiative leverages this existing infrastructure to provide targeted support to gender minorities.
In recent years, Delhi has introduced women-centric safety measures such as bus marshals, CCTV surveillance, and panic buttons. The Saheli Smart Card complements these efforts by removing cost barriers while promoting frequent and independent travel by marginalized commuters.
According to a 2024 report by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, gender-sensitive transit planning is critical in India’s urban future. By eliminating fare-related stress, Delhi’s model could serve as a replicable blueprint for other Indian metros like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.
Conclusion: Delhi Steps into an Inclusive Future
The launch of the Saheli Smart Card is not just a transportation reform—it is a socio-economic empowerment tool. It underscores Delhi’s commitment to making urban mobility more inclusive, equitable, and forward-looking.
By embracing gender-responsive public policy and digital technology, the Delhi government is positioning the capital city as a leader in inclusive urban planning. As the card becomes operational citywide, its true success will be reflected in more women and transgender individuals traveling independently, safely, and confidently.
With this initiative, Delhi reinforces its role as a model metropolis in fostering equality and modern urban governance.
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