- By Priyanka Koul
- Mon, 07 Jul 2025 11:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Delhi’s ‘Pink Ticket Scheme’, which allowed free bus rides for women, is set to be discontinued as Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s government gears up to roll out a fully digital alternative. In a bid to modernise the city’s transport system and curb alleged misuse, the Delhi government has announced the launch of a Smart Mobility Card scheme that will replace the existing paper-based system.
Under this new initiative, women and transgender commuters will be able to travel for free using digital smart cards linked to their identity. The move is aimed at streamlining fare collection, enhancing transparency, and eliminating loopholes in the current system.
The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has already invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from banks and financial institutions to partner in developing the new smart card system in line with the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) standards, reported Jagran.com.
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As per the official notice, only government-listed banks will be eligible to participate in the scheme. The smart cards issued under this programme will be valid across all public transport services in the national capital, replacing the need for pink paper tickets currently issued to women passengers.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, while presenting the state budget, criticised the long-standing pink ticket model introduced during Arvind Kejriwal’s tenure, claiming it was prone to corruption and lacked accountability. She said the digital system would ensure more secure and efficient travel access, phasing out paper-based tickets altogether.
This transition marks a significant shift in Delhi’s approach to public transport bringing in accountability, ease of use, and better access for all. Once implemented, the Smart Mobility Card could set the standard for other cities looking to modernise their transport systems while keeping inclusivity at the core.