The Delhi government has granted another reprieve to women bus passengers across the capital by extending the validity of paper-based pink tickets until August 31. Under an official directive issued on Saturday, August 15, eligible female commuters riding Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and Cluster buses can keep using traditional physical tickets for free transit while the city transitions to the digital Pink Saheli smart card network.
Second Extension Ahead of Mandatory Transition
This latest announcement represents the second time public transit authorities have pushed back the deadline for phasing out paper tickets. Initially, city officials intended to end the paper ticketing option on August 1. Under the subsequent schedule, the Pink Saheli smart card was set to become mandatory starting August 16. However, the new order issued just one day prior on August 15 ensures that paper pink tickets remain fully valid through the end of August.
Smart Card Distribution and Awareness Drive
Official records show that approximately 18 lakh Pink Saheli smart cards have been issued to women across Delhi so far. To ensure seamless adoption before paper tickets are retired completely, authorities have instructed transit officials to launch an extensive public awareness initiative during the extended window. Information regarding the new digital system is being broadcast through bus depot announcements, audio messages aboard buses, social media campaigns, print media publications, and several other communication channels. The objective is to maximize card ownership among eligible women before paper vouchers are fully phased out.
How the Pink Saheli Smart Card System Works
The Pink Saheli smart card operates on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework. Under the upcoming mandatory protocol, female passengers must carry a valid card whenever boarding a DTC or Cluster bus. Passengers will be required to tap their Pink Saheli smart card against the onboard Electronic Ticketing Machine (ETM) managed by bus conductors. Tapping the card validates eligibility and logs the free trip electronically.
Impact on Passengers After August 31
Once the paper-based pink ticket system concludes on August 31, carrying a physical Pink Saheli smart card will become obligatory to claim free rides. Women commuters who board buses without a valid smart card after the deadline expires will no longer be eligible for zero-fare boarding via paper receipts and must purchase a standard transit ticket at regular applicable fares.
