Delhi Chief Minister Announces Free Bus Travel Cards for Women and Transgender Residents

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced plans to introduce free bus travel cards for women in the city. The initiative aims to enhance mobility for women and transgender individuals aged 12 and above. The Saheli Smart Card will allow free rides on all DTC and Cluster buses. This move is part of a broader effort to empower women through improved transportation access.

The announcement was made during the foundation stone-laying ceremony for a new automated vehicle testing station at the DTC's Nand Nagri Depot. Gupta stated, "This is a symbol of a safer, more transparent, and women-friendly Delhi." She emphasised the importance of technological advancements like the ATS in conjunction with initiatives to empower women.

Technological Advancements in Transport Infrastructure

The new testing facility will be developed at a cost of Rs 10 crore. It aims to enhance road safety, transparency, and pollution control by digitally testing 72,000 vehicles annually without human intervention. Currently, Delhi has only one operational ATS in Jhuljhuli with limited capacity. The new facility will significantly increase testing capacity, benefiting commercial vehicle owners.

Transport Minister Pankaj Singh highlighted the significance of this development. He said it represents a major leap in Delhi's transport infrastructure. "We are combining technological advancement with accessibility and affordability," he noted. These centres are expected to make Delhi roads safer while generating Rs 3 crore annually for DTC.

Political Reactions and Accusations

Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accused the BJP-led Delhi government of dismantling key welfare schemes under the guise of fighting corruption. AAP's Delhi chief Saurabh Bharadwaj alleged that the BJP government was systematically shutting down pro-people initiatives like Mohalla Clinics and the Pink Ticket scheme as part of its anti-poor agenda.

In addition to the Nand Nagri Depot facility, CM Gupta announced plans for another fully automated ATS at the DTC Tehkhand Depot in South-East Delhi. This expansion is expected to reduce long travel distances for vehicle owners seeking fitness certification.

The introduction of free bus travel cards and new ATS facilities reflects efforts to improve public transport infrastructure in Delhi. These initiatives aim to enhance safety, transparency, and accessibility for residents while addressing concerns about pollution control and road safety.

With inputs from PTI