• Source:JND
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Delhi: The Delhi government is expected to begin the registration process for the Pink Card or the Saheli Smart Card from mid-October, allowing women and transgender residents of Delhi to travel for free in all DTC and Cluster buses. The Pink Card will be valid for a lifetime, enabling women to travel on public buses without any restrictions.

According to reports, the Delhi government may begin the registration process from mid-October as a Bhai Dooj gift for women in the national capital. However, the exact date and registration process will be finalised in an upcoming meeting, news agency PTI quoted a senior transport official as saying.

“Card registration is likely to begin in October, enabling Delhi's daughters and sisters to avail unlimited free travel as a token of the government's commitment towards their welfare, “ the official said. The new scheme aims to replace the previous paper ticket system with the Saheli Smart Card, allowing female passengers to enjoy unlimited free travel on Delhi government buses and eliminating the need for paper tickets.

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Details About Saheli Smart Card

- Saheli Smart Card or Pink Card is a personalised travel pass with the holder's name and photograph that will allow free bus rides to women and transgender residents aged 12 and above on all DTC and Cluster buses.

- Unlike the previous paper-based pink tickety system, the Saheli Smart Card aims to revolutionise travel for passengers, allowing them to recharge and top up for use on other transit modes.

- Though the card can be topped up and used on other transit modes, free travel benefits only apply to DTC and Cluster buses.

- The card will enable identity-linked travel and will be issued under the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework.

Saheli Smart Card: Check Eligibility, Registration And Other Details

- Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be bona fide residents of Delhi, aged 12 years or above, with a valid proof of address.

- Registration Process: Registration for the Saheli Smart Card can be done online through the DTC portal, where applicants can select a participating bank and complete full KYC verification at the chosen bank branch. After completing the KYC process, the issuing bank will dispatch the Saheli Smart Card to the applicant’s registered address.

- Documents Required: Aadhaar card, PAN card, proof of residence in Delhi, passport-size photograph, and any other documents as per bank-specific KYC norms.

- Card Activation: The Saheli Smart Cards must be activated through the DTC’s Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) before use.

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The Delhi government has invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from banks and financial institutions to facilitate the issuance of the Saheli Smart Card. According to reports, the free travel benefit will be provided without any charge by the government, but the issuing banks may levy a nominal card issuance or maintenance fee as per their policies.

(With PTI Inputs)