Thailand and Cambodia exchanged heavy artillery fire for a second day on Friday as border fighting intensified and spread, while Cambodia's leader said Thailand had agreed to a Malaysian ceasefire proposal but then backed down.

It's now the fourth day of fighting between Thailand and Cambodia and Thais who had to flee their homes on the border are taking refuge in temporary evacuation centers that house thousands.

Thailand claims the ordnance was newly laid, but Cambodia says they are leftovers from a final stint of fighting during the murderous Khmer Rouge regime. Still, soon after the incident, both sides downgraded relations, expelled their neighbour’s ambassador and recalled embassy staff.

Indian travellers are advised to avoid Thailand-Cambodia border regions amid armed clashes. Martial law is enforced in parts of Thailand. Embassies in both nations have issued emergency contacts and urged vigilance.