Delhi Government Extends Paper Pink Tickets Till September 30; Smart Card Mandatory From October 1
Delhi extended paper pink tickets for DTC/cluster bus free travel for women till September 30. Mandatory 'Pink Saheli' smart card tapping begins on October 1. Passengers lacking the smart card post-deadline must purchase standard tickets at regular fares. Starting October 1, free travel privileges apply exclusively via a valid tapped Pink Saheli Smart Card.
The Delhi government has extended paper-based pink tickets for women passengers on DTC and cluster buses through September 30, pushing back the mandatory "Pink Saheli" smart card mandate by nearly two weeks.
Extension and Transition Timeline
Under an official order issued on Thursday, September 17, the transport administration granted approval to continue paper pink ticket issuance for free travel on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and cluster buses until September 30, reports PTI. Delhi Latest News Today on September 17th, 2026: Barapullah Phase-3 Opens, Building Safety Drive & DTC Strike Continues.
"The competent authority has now been pleased to accord approval for further extension of the existing arrangement for issuance of paper-based pink tickets up to September 30. Accordingly, during this extended period, eligible women passengers may continue to be issued paper-based pink tickets for availing the free bus travel facility in DTC and cluster buses," the official order stated.
Previously, the department scheduled compulsory adoption of the "Pink Saheli" smart card starting September 18. Officials plan to ramp up awareness through depot/in-bus announcements, print, and social media channels during the grace window.
What Changes From October 1
- Mandatory Tapping: Starting October 1, free travel privileges apply exclusively via a valid tapped Pink Saheli Smart Card.
- Paid Alternative: Passengers lacking the smart card post-deadline must purchase standard tickets at regular fares.
- Adoption Figures: Roughly 19 lakh women have already acquired the smart card since its launch earlier this year.
Registration and Background
The paper-based system is undergoing a phased retirement as the capital transitions to digital transit ticketing. To support registration, the government operates 50 authorised centres across the city. Officials confirmed that registration and card issuance facilities will remain functional past September 30 for late applicants.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 17, 2026 09:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
