New Delhi, July 31: In a significant relief for women commuters, the Delhi government has allowed the use of pink tickets for free travel in DTC buses until August 15. An official announced this decision on Friday.
The official stated that the deadline for using the ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card’ (NCMC) for free travel has automatically been extended from August 1 to August 16.
Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh mentioned that under the revised decision, conductors will continue to issue pink tickets until midnight on August 15, while the mandatory use of the ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card’ will come into effect from August 16.
He explained that this decision was made to facilitate a smooth transition to the smart card-based system and to ensure that no eligible passenger faces any inconvenience during this change.
As of July 31, a total of 1.704 million pink cards have been issued, reflecting a strong response from women commuters towards this initiative.
Pankaj Kumar Singh emphasized that the extension of the deadline was entirely in the interest of women passengers, ensuring that every eligible beneficiary has ample time to obtain the ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card.’
He urged all women commuters to obtain their NCMC cards before August 16 to continue enjoying the free travel facility without interruption.
The minister also directed officials to conduct extensive awareness campaigns and provide all possible assistance to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.
According to a previous circular issued on July 10, only women passengers with a valid ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card’ (NCMC) would be eligible for free travel in DTC buses starting August 1. However, to ensure that all eligible women have sufficient time to obtain the card, the government decided to extend the existing free travel arrangement until August 15.
Pankaj Kumar Singh assured that the Delhi government is making every effort to ensure that this transition is seamless, citizen-friendly, and hassle-free.
He instructed all bus depot managers, regional managers, and conductors to intensify public awareness campaigns and assist women in obtaining their ‘Pink Saheli Smart Cards’ before the revised deadline.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.