According to residents, heaps of plastics waste and other garbage are frequently dumped along the railway lines in the area. Locals often set these waste piles on fire during the daytime, especially in the afternoon, two to three times a month.

Burning the waste creates thick smoke that engulfs the railway tracks, sometimes reducing visibility along the lines. The smoke also spreads to nearby residential areas, including apartment complexes, and on certain days even extends up to the busy GST Road.

Commuters travelling on electric trains between Tambaram and Chennai Beach are among the worst affected, as trains pass directly through the smoke-filled stretch. Passengers waiting on platforms at the Sanatorium railway station also face discomfort due to the fumes.

Elderly people, children, and those with respiratory conditions such as wheezing are particularly vulnerable. Even pedestrians and motorists passing through the area, including two-wheeler riders and auto passengers, are exposed to the polluted air.

Dinesh Kumar, resident of Chromepet, said, there is confusion over who is responsible for dumping and burning the garbage. While some claim that residents may be disposing of waste due to inadequate municipal collection services after the area was merged into the Tambaram Corporation.