Delhi Women to Enjoy Free Bus Travel with New Smart Card Initiative
Exciting News for Women in Delhi
As the new year approaches, women in Delhi have reason to celebrate. The long-awaited Pink Sahyogi smart card for free travel on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses is set to be launched soon. The Delhi government plans to distribute these smart cards to eligible women residing in the national capital starting in the first week of January. According to sources, after a lengthy process, the transport department has finalized arrangements with Airtel Payments Bank and Mufin Payments Bank for the issuance of these cards.
Eligibility and Application Process
However, this initiative may pose a challenge for women without a Delhi Aadhaar card. The government has stated that women will not need to purchase tickets when they present their Pink Sahyogi smart card. By tapping the card on the electronic ticketing machine held by the conductor, their travel will be recorded automatically. This system aims to eliminate long queues, paperwork, and the daily hassle of buying tickets. The government has confirmed that this will provide unlimited free travel, benefiting working women, students, and elderly women directly.
Required Documents for Application
To apply, the most crucial document will be a Delhi-based Aadhaar card. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of residence, an identification document such as a PAN card or voter ID, a passport-sized photo, and a mobile number. The mobile number will be used for OTP verification and registration. The government has made it clear that this card will only be issued to female residents of Delhi, meaning women from outside the city will not be eligible for the Pink Sahyogi card under the current rules.
Where to Obtain the Smart Card
Women can obtain their Pink Sahyogi card by presenting their Delhi Aadhaar card as identification at designated counters. DTC officials have indicated that the selected banks will issue three types of smart cards for bus passengers. Banks have been instructed to set up counters at district magistrate offices, sub-divisional magistrate offices, bus depots, and public service centers to facilitate the card acquisition process for women.
Timeline for Implementation
The responsibility for opening these counters will lie with the banks. This process is expected to commence in the first week of January, and if everything goes according to plan, the initiative could launch anytime after January 14. The Pink Sahyogi card will be issued first, specifically for female residents of Delhi. This card will be mandatory for girls and women aged 12 years and older.