Army has intensified its rescue and relief efforts in flood affected areas of Jammu and Kashmir as part of its operation Megh Rahat.

Nearly 300 army columns are engaged in the effort and more than one lakh 40 thousand people have been rescued by the Army, Air Force and NDRF so far. More than 42 thousand people have been treated by the 96 Army Medical teams working round-the-clock.

A defence spokesman said a field hospital is being started to enhance medical assistance to the flood affected people.

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan visited the border district of Poonch on Saturday and took stock of the situation.

He also interacted with flood victims and assured them of all possible help from the Centre. He will visit Srinagar on Sunday to take stock of relief work.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened an all party meeting on Saturday.

All parties issued a joint appeal to individuals and organisations to help flood affected people in every possible manner.