• Light Motor Vehicles: (LMVs) Cars, jeeps, and taxis are the most common vehicles on NH 54, utilized extensively for personal travel and tourism between the two states. These vehicles are permitted to ply on all sections of the highway, often cruising at higher speeds on the recently upgraded stretches. Drivers of LMVs must adhere to the speed limits set by the NHAI, which are strictly enforced via cameras and highway patrol units.
• Two-Wheelers: Motorcycles and scooters are legally allowed on National Highway 54, serving as a popular mode of transport for daily commuters from nearby towns and villages. Riders are required to keep to the extreme left lane to ensure their safety, as the highway witnesses significant heavy vehicle traffic. It is mandatory for all two-wheeler operators and pillion riders to wear helmets, with traffic police conducting regular checks at border points.
• Heavy Commercial Vehicles: (HCVs) Trucks and multi-axle trailers form the backbone of the logistics network on this route, transporting agricultural goods, cotton, and gypsum. These heavy vehicles are allowed 24/7, although they are subject to toll collections at various plazas situated along the Punjab-Rajasthan border. To prevent road damage and ensure safety, these vehicles must comply with strict weight regulations mandated by the government.
• Light Commercial Vehicles: (LCVs) Pick-up vans, tempos, and small trucks categorized as LCVs are permitted on the highway for short-distance goods transport. These vehicles typically supply local markets in Fazilka, Abohar, and Hanumangarh, often moving agricultural produce from fields to mandis. They are expected to maintain a specific lane discipline to avoid obstructing the faster-moving light motor vehicles on the main carriageway.

The road conditions on National Highway 54 vary significantly as one traverses from the lush plains of Punjab into the arid landscapes of Rajasthan. The section within Punjab, particularly around Fazilka and Abohar, generally boasts well-maintained bituminous surfaces, offering a smooth ride with clearly marked lanes that allow for consistent cruising speeds. However, as the highway crosses the border into Rajasthan, drivers often encounter stretches undergoing active construction as part of the four-laning project, leading to occasional diversions and rough patches of unpaved road. These construction zones, while temporary, can cause sudden reductions in speed and require heightened vigilance to navigate uneven surfaces. Furthermore, during the monsoon season, low-lying areas near the Hanumangarh district may experience waterlogging, while the summer months bring the challenge of fine dust settling on the tarmac, which can reduce tire traction and visibility for commuters.

The overall driving experience on NH 54 is defined by the heavy mix of traffic and the unique environmental factors of the region. The highway acts as a major trade corridor, meaning private vehicle owners must constantly share the road with slow-moving tractor-trolleys, overloaded trucks, and stray cattle, particularly near village entry and exit points. While the Punjab stretch is lined with avenues of trees providing relief from the sun, the Rajasthan segment offers vast, open horizons where strong crosswinds can impact vehicle stability, requiring a firm grip on the steering. Despite these challenges, the route is scenic and vital, and safety has improved with the installation of reflective signboards and rumble strips near settlements. Drivers are advised to exercise patience during peak harvest seasons when agricultural traffic peaks, but the ongoing infrastructure upgrades promise a significantly safer and more comfortable journey in the near future.

• Broadening to Four Lanes: The most significant ongoing development on NH 54 is the expansion from a two-lane to a four-lane configuration. This major upgrade is currently focused on the strategically vital Punjab and Haryana sections, specifically the stretch connecting Moga and Barnala, extending towards the Haryana border near Hisar.
• Enhanced Road Safety Features: To improve commuter safety, the highway authority is installing modern safety infrastructure. This includes the construction of high-quality metal crash barriers, the application of durable thermoplastic road markings, and the installation of retro-reflective signage at key junctions to reduce accident rates.
• Major Bridge and Flyover Construction: Several new flyovers and elevated corridors are under construction at congested intersections and railway crossings. The focus is on eliminating bottlenecks at busy market areas along the route, ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow and reducing travel time significantly.
• Rajasthan Section Improvements: In the Rajasthan segment, specifically from Hanumangarh towards Pindwara, the NHAI has intensified road strengthening and resurfacing works. This includes the restoration of old bridges and the improvement of drainage systems to withstand heavy monsoon flows.

National Highway 54 stands as a vital economic artery that seamlessly bridges the agricultural heartlands of Punjab with the burgeoning markets of Rajasthan. While the route currently navigates through the challenges of active construction and mixed traffic, the ongoing four-laning projects promise a future of enhanced connectivity and reduced travel times. This highway is more than just a transit route; it is a catalyst for regional development, facilitating trade and fostering cultural exchange across state borders. As infrastructure upgrades progress, NH 54 is set to transform into a modern corridor, ensuring a safer, faster, and more efficient journey for generations to come.