The Delhi government is all set to approve free travel for women on the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and cluster scheme buses very soon. For every ‘pink’ ticket that will be issued for a free ride, the government will be reimbursing the operator Rs 10, irrespective of the amount of distance travelled.

As per a government source, a cabinet not regarding the same has already been prepared.

He also said, ‘It has been sent to the law and the finance departments, and will be presented before the cabinet soon.’

The government of Delhi has plans to provide free travel to women in both Delhi Metro and buses. But, the DMRC needs at least eight months to implement the same and this is the reason why the government is starting it soon on the buses.

The government source said, ‘As soon as the proposal is approved, DTC will be directed to implement it,’ he said.

As per a DTC official, there are two options for implementing the scheme.

He said, ‘A DTC official said the corporation had submitted two options on implementing the scheme. ‘One option is to issue tickets to women travellers without charging them and the other is to issue special travel passes for which the government can pay the subsidy to the operators.’

The rate for travelling in a DTC bus is Rs 5 for up to 4km, Rs 10 for 4km to 10km, and Rs 15 for journeys beyond 10 km. DTC prefers giving free passes, whereas the government is going for tickets.

A DTC official added, ‘Unlike the passes, for which a monthly fee or Rs 800 could have been reimbursed, the government wanted special tickets so that the exact number of trips can be counted and reimbursed.’

DTC claims that it would be easier to keep track of the riders if passes are provided and it can be a great record for the government.