Ground improvement techniques play a significant role in enhancing weak soil characteristics to support infrastructure development and improve construction performance. Conventional stabilizing agents such as cement and lime are widely used; however, their production contributes substantially to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward sustainable alternatives through the utilization of industrial and natural waste materials. Among these materials, river silt and pond ash have emerged as promising resources for soil stabilization and ground improvement applications. River silt, generated through sediment deposition processes, and pond ash, produced from thermal power plants, are available in large quantities and often create disposal and environmental challenges. Their beneficial utilization in geotechnical engineering offers a sustainable solution for waste management and resource conservation. This review paper presents a comprehensive assessment of previous studies related to the application of river silt and pond ash in ground improvement. The review examines the physical, chemical, and engineering characteristics of these materials and their influence on soil behavior. Key geotechnical properties including compaction characteristics, unconfined compressive strength, shear strength, California Bearing Ratio (CBR), permeability, consolidation behavior, and durability performance are critically discussed. The effects of varying replacement percentages and curing periods on stabilized soils are also evaluated. Furthermore, the environmental and economic benefits associated with the use of these waste materials are highlighted. The review concludes that river silt and pond ash can significantly improve engineering performance while reducing dependence on traditional stabilizers, thereby promoting sustainable and eco-friendly geotechnical construction practices. Future research directions focusing on long-term field performance and large-scale implementation are also identified.

 Keywords: Ground Improvement, River Silt, Pond Ash, Soil Stabilization, Sustainable Geotechnical Engineering, Waste Utilization, Soil Strength, Environmental Sustainability, Compaction Characteristics, Geotechnical Applications