The Delhi government’s move to replace the existing ‘pink ticket’ scheme with Saheli smart cards marks a major shift in how free public transport for women will be managed in the capital. While the official reason is to ensure subsidies only reach genuine Delhi residents, the change also reflects broader political and logistical considerations.
Key Takeaways:
- Eligibility Now Tied to Residence:
Unlike the earlier pink ticket scheme where any woman could board for free, the Saheli Card will only benefit Delhi residents. Proof of address is mandatory. This change is aimed at preventing what the current government claims was misuse under the previous AAP regime. - Two Types of Cards:
- Non-KYC Saheli Card: Easy to obtain with residential proof. Can be used on both buses and Metro, though bus rides will be free, while Metro charges will apply.
- KYC Saheli Card: Requires additional verification and will have the user’s name/photo. This is a more secure, bank-issued smart card and also NCMC-compliant.
- Wider Tech Integration:
The move brings Delhi’s fare system in line with the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) framework – a long-standing goal of Indian urban transport policy. It could lay the groundwork for eventual integration across Metro, bus, and even other cities. - Digital Shift:
With web portals, bank partnerships, and smart card issuance at Metro stations, this is part of a broader digitization push. However, there may be accessibility hurdles for women who are digitally excluded or face barriers in obtaining proof of residence. - Political Messaging:
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s Budget speech made it clear: this is about correcting what the BJP calls AAP’s ‘vote bank politics.’ Whether this resonates with the public will depend on how easy and efficient the card application process proves to be.
Questions Going Forward:
- How will migrant women or those without proper documentation be handled?
- Will the card-based model lead to bureaucratic delays or drop-offs in usage?
- Will this restrict access for women who genuinely need it but struggle to prove residency?
Conclusion:
The Saheli Card initiative aims to tighten controls and prevent subsidy misuse but introduces new layers of administration that could complicate access for some. Whether it improves or hinders the lives of Delhi’s commuting women will depend heavily on how efficiently and inclusively the system is rolled out.
