In response to the low uptake of the Pink Saheli card among women commuters, the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has initiated a special campaign on its buses to encourage women to obtain the cards, an official statement indicated.
“From August 1, pink tickets will only be issued to women passengers who have a valid Pink Saheli smart card, which must be tapped during boarding. These passengers will continue to enjoy free bus service in line with the scheme’s provisions,” the DTC specified in its directive. Officials confirmed that the initiative aims to gradually phase out the current paper-based pink ticket system in favor of a smart card system for accessing free bus travel.
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“As of August 1, women passengers lacking a Pink Saheli card will not be given pink tickets and will need to purchase regular tickets at the applicable fare to travel on DTC and DoT (Cluster) buses,” the directive stated.
The Delhi government has established 50 authorized centers throughout the city for issuing Pink Saheli smart cards, as noted in the order.
“Eligible women may obtain the Pink Saheli smart card from the designated centers and counters in accordance with the guidelines provided by the transport department and DTC over time,” it further mentioned. To date, around 11 lakh cards have been issued citywide, with an aim to reach 13 lakh by the end of July, after which the card will be required.
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