Hindusthan Institute of Technology, Coimbatore Engineering and Architecture Courses & Fees 2026

Question : Comprehension:
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each blank.
On Hauz Khas Road, at the entrance to the pedestrianised Hauz Khas Village, the guard (1)________ the barrier asks you to halt and directs (2)______ to the parking lot. It's 5 p.m. and the parking lot is nearly empty as shops are closed and there are (3)________ any shoppers. There aren't many people on the lane leading to the (4)_________ area either. This is unusual for HKV (as it is popularly known) (5)_______ it is one of Delhi's popular shopping areas. Initially a hub for designer (6)________, the HKV experience (7)_________ a throbbing mix of cafes, art galleries, curio shops, gyms, and, of course, fashion boutiques. The quirky neighbourhood was a hit (8)_________ with youngsters and tourists for its happening nightlife. These days, however, night comes hours (9)______ dusk at HKV, as you can only see street dogs, security guards, a few takeaway joint managers, and bored shop attendants (10)________ to reach home early.

Question:
Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank 9.

Option 1: early

Option 2: later

Option 3: before

Option 4: into