Representational Image (Img-Pinterast)
New Delhi: Women passengers travelling in Delhi’s DTC and cluster buses will see a major change from July 1, 2026. The existing pink paper ticket system is set to be discontinued, and free travel benefits will be available only through the Pink Saheli Smart Card, commonly known as the Pink Card.
The move has triggered confusion among many commuters, with some believing that free bus travel for women is coming to an end. However, the benefit will continue for eligible passengers. The only change is that women will now have to use the smart card instead of taking a pink ticket from the conductor.
The decision has been taken to bring more transparency into the free travel scheme and prevent misuse of paper tickets. Under the old system, pink tickets were issued manually, making it difficult to track actual ridership and subsidy use. There were also complaints of ticket misuse, duplication and lack of proper passenger data.
The Pink Card is a verified smart travel card issued after document-based checks. It carries passenger details and allows the journey to be recorded digitally when tapped inside the bus. Officials believe this system will make the scheme more transparent and help the government maintain accurate travel records.
As the deadline nears, rush has increased at several Pink Card centres across Delhi. Long queues were seen at centres including Nehru Place, where many women arrived early to complete the registration process before the new rule comes into effect.
Passengers who regularly travel by DTC or cluster buses have been advised to get their Pink Card made as soon as possible to avoid inconvenience after July 1. Without the card, women may not be able to avail the free travel facility under the new system.
