Delhi has made the Pink Saheli Smart Card mandatory for women seeking free bus travel. The rule applies to Delhi Transport Corporation and cluster buses, both AC and non-AC.

The change came under the Delhi Transport Corporation (Free and Concessional Passes) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2026. Women without the card must now buy a ticket at the regular fare.

The paper-based pink tickets were discontinued after September 30, following extensions. The smart card is based on the National Common Mobility Card system and carries the holder’s name and photo.

Officials said around 19 lakh women have received the card since its launch earlier this year. Fifty authorised centres across the city are issuing it, and the first card is free.

Passengers must tap the card on the electronic ticketing machine after boarding and tell the conductor their destination. The rules also cover transgender persons who are residents of Delhi.

The government plans awareness drives through bus announcements, social media and print to help commuters switch to the new system.