Pink Saheli Success: 35 Lakh Women Ride DTC Buses in 6 Days
Over 35 lakh women and transgender persons have used the new Pink Saheli Smart Card for free DTC bus travel in just six days across Delhi.
The Delhi transport landscape has witnessed a massive shift in just a week. Since the introduction of the Pink Saheli Smart Card, more than 35 lakh women have utilized the new system to travel across the capital. This surge highlights the rapid adoption of the Delhi Government's new card-based free travel initiative, which officially rolled out on October 3.
Massive Adoption of Free Travel Scheme
The numbers reflect an overwhelming response from commuters. Out of the total 35 lakh users, more than 25 lakh women have specifically used the DTC bus services since the scheme's inception earlier this month. The Pink Saheli Smart Card is an NCMC-enabled card that provides free travel to eligible female residents of Delhi on both AC and non-AC DTC and Cluster buses.
In a significant move toward inclusivity, the scheme also covers transgender persons residing in Delhi, ensuring they benefit from the free transit facility provided by the government.
How the Tap-and-Go Technology Works
The Pink Saheli Smart Card is designed to modernize the commuting experience by moving away from traditional paper tickets. Using NCMC-based 'Tap-and-Go' technology, the system works as follows:
- Seamless Boarding: Passengers simply tap their card on Electronic Ticket Machines (ETM) to record their journey.
- Automatic Recording: The journey is logged automatically, eliminating the need for physical tickets.
- Future Integration: The card is built for the future, designed to be used for payment-based services in the Delhi Metro and other public transport networks.
- Digital Convenience: Users can easily recharge the card online and maintain a transparent digital record of their travels.
38 Distribution Centres Set Up Across Delhi
To manage the high demand and ensure every eligible citizen is covered, the Transport Department has established 38 Pink Pass Distribution Centres throughout the city. These centres, along with special registration camps, are strategically located to provide easy access to commuters.
Key locations for card issuance and registration include:
- Nehru Place
- Sarojini Nagar
- Rohini
- Narela
- Kashmiri Gate
- Shahdara
- Uttam Nagar
- Dwarka
- Punjabi Bagh
Government Promises Continued Support
Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh noted that the high volume of users indicates a very positive response to the new system. Addressing concerns from those who have not yet secured their cards, the Minister assured that the registration and card-making process will remain active until every eligible woman in Delhi is covered.
"The government is increasing facilitation arrangements so women can get their cards without facing unnecessary problems," the Minister stated, emphasizing that the goal is to make the transition as smooth as possible for all commuters.