According to the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, during which hours may the State Government permit the use of loud speakers or public address systems on festive occasions?
- A8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- B10:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnightCorrect
- C12:00 midnight to 2:00 a.m.
- D9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Solution
Concept
Loud speakers are banned at night (10 pm to 6 am). The State may relax this for 10 pm to 12 midnight on festive occasions.
Step-by-step solution
1. The rules ban loud speakers between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. 2. Rule 5(2) lets the State Government permit use up to 12:00 midnight on cultural or religious festive occasions. 3. The limit is 15 days in a calendar year. 4. So the answer is 10:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight.
Explanation
The State Government may relax the night ban for a short time on festive occasions. The relaxation is only for 10 p.m. to 12 midnight, and for not more than 15 days in a year.
Why the other options are wrong
A and D are inside normal permitted hours, so no relaxation is needed. C (12 midnight to 2 a.m.) is never permitted.
Shortcut
Festive relaxation = 10 pm to 12 midnight, 15 days a year.
Common mistake
Choosing a later time such as 12 to 2 a.m.
Correct answer: B) 10:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight