Delhi Pink Saheli Smart Card Deadline Extended to August 16: How Bus Passengers Can Apply
The government of Delhi has also increased the deadline of the Pink Saheli Smart card by a few days till August 16th, to give enough time to the ladies to shift from the old pink paper ticket system. Till the 15th of August, the women can avail free ride in DTC and cluster buses using the old pink paper ticket system and thereafter it would become compulsory for them to use the Pink Saheli smart card.
Why Has the Deadline of the Pink Saheli Card Been Extended?
As per the initial deadline, the women had to compulsorily use the Pink Saheli Smart card system from August 1st. However, the Delhi government felt it fit to extend the deadline because many eligible commuters are still in the process of getting the card.
The transport minister, Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, stated that the main purpose of extending the deadline was to make sure that the introduction of the new system becomes smooth for all.
What Is the Pink Saheli Smart Card?
Pink Saheli Smart Card is a new NCMC-based smart card that has been launched in order to digitize the free bus ride program for women in Delhi.
Apart from making commuting easier, this smart card will enhance transparency and decrease the paper trail besides making it easy for the government to maintain records of the beneficiaries.
Who Can Apply?
Pink Saheli Smart Card is meant for eligible women commuters who are making use of the free travel facility in DTC and Cluster buses.
Those women who do not hold this card yet can apply even during the extended phase-in period. They can use pink tickets for traveling until August 15 while getting themselves registered.
How to Apply for the Pink Saheli Smart Card
Eligible women may apply for the free ride scheme by visiting depots of DTC where Pink Saheli Smart Cards are being distributed from the authorised registration centre.
Aadhaar-based and mobile number-based identity verification is normally required for the issuance of the smart card. After successful verification of identity, the smart card is issued and becomes valid for free rides on DTC and Cluster buses. Government has arranged some special registration camps for faster distribution of cards among eligible women.
What will happen till 15 August?
No woman passenger has to fear that they will lose their free ride benefits right away.
Delhi government has clearly stated that conductors would be continuing to issue paper pink tickets until August 15, and instructions have been issued that no eligible woman should be deprived of free travel facility in the meantime. From August 16 onwards, only the Pink Saheli Smart Card will be used for the scheme.
Why Is the Government Moving to Smart Cards?
The transition towards smart cards is an indication that the Delhi government is keen on modernizing its transport systems via digitalization.
The smart card is more secure compared to paper tickets in that they leave a digital trail of journey, easier verification process, less prone to misuse and compatible with the National Common Mobility Card system. The switch will also ease processes for transport authorities.
How Many Cards Have Been Distributed So Far?
There is a high demand for the cards from commuters. So far, about 17 lakhs Pink Saheli Smart Cards have been distributed, and efforts to register more women who qualify for the cards will continue until the new deadline.
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Why Women Should Register Immediately
While there is an extended deadline, commuters are advised not to postpone applying for the cards.
This is because applying early ensures you get your smart card without having to join long lines at registration centers. It will also allow you to enjoy the free bus transport in Delhi without any hassles when paper tickets cease to operate.
Conclusion
With the deferment of Pink Saheli Smart Card until August 16, the female passengers in Delhi get another chance to opt for the new system without having to forgo the perks of free bus ride.
Those who are yet to register themselves need to register themselves immediately so that they can continue their smooth journey after the new mandatory system comes into force.
For now, women passengers can use the pink ticket till August 15, but from August 16 onwards, Pink Saheli Smart Card will become a must-have for free travel on DTC and Cluster buses.
