The Delhi government has launched the ‘Saheli Smart Card’ scheme, aiming to make public transport more accessible and inclusive for women and the transgender community. This new initiative is an important step towards empowering the particular sections of the society. With the help of this smart card, eligible passengers will be able to travel free of cost without ticket and without waiting in Delhi’s public buses.
This card has been designed in such a way that it makes travel more convenient, safe and simple, as well as encourages social inclusion. ‘Saheli Smart Card’ is a meaningful effort towards providing dignified and safe transport to the neglected communities in the capital.
What Does The Saheli Smart Card do?
The Saheli Smart Card is a National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) developed specifically for women and transgender residents of Delhi.
Once issued, the card can be used not just for travel in buses, but on other public transport services – such as the Delhi Metro and rapid trains – although it’s important to remember that the benefit of free travel will be strictly limited to DTC and cluster buses.
Main attributes
Convenience: Women will no longer be required to get tickets from conductors; They will just present their smart card.
One-Time registration: It will be entirely digital to register for the card, and women can obtain the card after Aadhaar-based KYC via partner banks.
Multiple Utilities: Apart from the buses, the card can be also topped up and used on metro travel and in the future in auto (three-wheelers) and taxi.
Free Of Cost: The Saheli Smart Card’s cost is borne by the Delhi government, banks may only charge small processing fee or delivery fees to deliver the card at home.
Who Can Eligible?
This Card Is Available For:
Women and transgender persons 12 years of age and older
Permanent residents in Delhi
It is important to note that women who live in adjacent NCR areas like Noida, Ghaziabad, Sonipat, and Faridabad will be excluded from eligibility, even if they travel into Delhi for work. The current scheme is only for permanent residents of the national capital, but there are plans to examine the revised eligibility of NCR residents in the future.
How To Apply?
Go to the official DTC website and register online.
During the registration process, select the partner bank of your choice.
Visit the partner bank and complete Aadhaar-based KYC or KYC verification for the card.
Upon successful verification, the card will be delivered to the applicant’s home.
Activate the card using DTC’s Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS).
Once activated, the card will be ready for use on the bus, and optionally, top up the card to use for paid metro or other services.
Required Documents
To apply, Applicants Must Furnish:
Aadhaar card (with Delhi address)
Proof of residence
PAN card
Passport-sized photograph
