Women to Travel Free on DTC Buses Until August 15 with Pink Tickets

New Delhi, July 31: In a significant relief for female commuters, the Delhi government has authorized the use of pink tickets for free travel on DTC buses until August 15. An official announced this update on Friday.

The official stated that the deadline for using the essential ‘Pink Sahili Smart Card’ (NCMC) for free travel has automatically extended from August 1 to August 16.

Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh explained that, according to the revised decision, conductors will continue to issue pink tickets until midnight on August 15. The mandatory use of the ‘Pink Sahili Smart Card’ will come into effect from August 16.

He emphasized that this decision was made to facilitate a smooth transition to the smart card-based system, ensuring 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 female passengers towards this initiative.

Pankaj Kumar Singh stated that the extension of the deadline was entirely in the interest of women travelers, allowing ample time for every eligible beneficiary to obtain their ‘Pink Sahili Smart Card.’

He urged all female passengers to acquire their NCMC cards before August 16 to continue enjoying the free travel benefit without interruption.

The minister also mentioned that officials have been directed to conduct a large-scale awareness campaign and provide all possible assistance to ensure a smooth transition for everyone.

According to a previous circular issued on July 10, only female passengers with valid ‘Pink Sahili Smart Cards’ (NCMC) would be eligible for free travel on DTC buses starting August 1. However, to ensure that all eligible women have sufficient time to obtain their cards, the government decided to extend the current 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 the public awareness campaign and assist women in obtaining their ‘Pink Sahili Smart Cards’ before the revised deadline.