TAXILA: US Consul General Christine Hawkins expressed admiration for the diverse culture and rich history of Attock district, formerly known as `Campbellpur` during the British Raj, during her visit on Thursday.

During her visit, she was briefed by Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza, who informed her that the district is home to a variety of Islamic, Sikh, Hindu, and Britishera cultural monuments.

These include the historic Attock Fort, built at Attock Khurd during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar; the ancient riverside town of Makhad Sharif; the Sikh religion`s second holiest site, Gurdwara Punja Sahib; the British architectural marvel of Attock Bridge; and the colonialera Attock Khurd Railway Station. The deputy commissioner said that, given its rich cultural and historical significance, the district administration is making efforts to develop Attock into a major tourist destination.

He added that the Sumbal Bungalow, built in 1904, is being restored and will be repurposed as an environmental centre.

Other tourism initiatives include the construction of fishing huts at Khushal Garh, the development of `Pakistan Point` in the Kala Chitta Reserve Forest, and steps to promote tourism at Attock Khurd.

She was also informed that the administration is focusing on the optimal use of peanut and olive production, and a research institute has been established for this purpose.

In the field of environmental protection, arainwater harvesting system has been set up in 970 schools across the district, along with offices of 72 union councils. Correspondent