The Bhopal Metro is all set to commence its operations from Saturday December 20. The inaugural journey will begin at 5 pm from the Subhash Metro Station. The ceremony is taking place at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre (Minto Hall) attended by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar news agency IANS reported. Following the event the leaders along with Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya will proceed to Subhash Nagar Metro Station to flag off the first metro train. They will then ride the flower-decorated three-coach train to AIIMS station. Commercial operations for the public begin on Sunday December 21 transforming Bhopal into Madhya Pradeshs second metro city after Indore. The priority corridor on the Orange Line spanning approximately 6.22 km (elevated) connects key areas and includes eight stations: Subhash Nagar Kendriya Vidyalaya Board Office Chauraha (MP Nagar) MP Nagar Rani Kamalapati (Habibganj) Station DRM Office Alkapuri and AIIMS. This section links major commercial hubs the primary railway station and the premier hospital aiming to ease traffic congestion and initially serve thousands of daily commuters. According to the IANS report the full Phase 1 project encompasses two corridors totaling around 28-31 km: the Orange Line (AIIMS to Karond 16 km) and Blue Line (14 km) with an estimated cost of over Rs 10000 crore. The priority section alone costs Rs 2225 crore a government statement said. Designed with passenger convenience safety and sustainability in mind the metro features high-speed lifts and escalators wheelchair access Braille signage for the differently-abled AI-based CCTV surveillance platform screen doors and advanced signaling systems. Environmentally friendly elements include regenerative braking and solar power integration. Inside the air-conditioned coaches riders will enjoy mobile charging points and modern passenger information systems for a comfortable world-class experience. From Sunday trains will operate from 9 a.m.to 7 p.m. with 17 daily trips and fares starting at Rs 20 (for 1-2 stations) Rs 30 (3-5 stations) and Rs 40 (6-8 stations) -- with no introductory free rides or discounts to passengers the statement said. This launch not only provides fast safe and eco-friendly transport but also propels Bhopal toward a smarter greener future enhancing the quality of life and establishing the city as a modern accessible capital. After years of anticipation and delays Bhopals residents can finally embrace this new era of urban mobility.