The Colombian National Directorate of Firefighters (DNBC) has issued a circular addressing the legal status of emergency vehicles donated by international entities.
This move aims to streamline the registration and utilization of these vehicles in compliance with national transportation regulations.
The DNBC, recognizing the importance of its role in guiding and supporting the country’s firefighting bodies, has collaborated with the Ministry of Interior to address the issue of over 340 donated vehicles currently facing legal hurdles.
These vehicles, contributed by the international community, have yet to be regularized with the Ministry of Transport and its dependencies.
An inter-institutional meeting held on December 12, 2023, led to the proposal of the Compilatory Resolution in traffic matters 45295 of 2022, Article 5.14.1.2, and Resolution 26535 of June 27, 2023.
These resolutions primarily outline:
The mandatory registration of emergency vehicles in the National Registry of Motor Vehicles (RNA) of the National Transit Registry (RUNT).
Initial registration of used vehicles donated to Official or Volunteer Fire Departments by foreign public or private entities, stipulating a maximum age limit of ten years from the date of manufacture.
A transitory paragraph allowing the initial registration of donated vehicles over ten years old for a period of 12 months following the resolution’s enactment.
The DNBC has requested firefighting bodies with such vehicles to submit the required documentation by January 10, 2024.
The necessary documents include import declarations, vehicle identification details, donation documents, and adherence to Law 769 of 2002.
Documents in foreign languages must be translated in accordance with the law.
The circular emphasizes the importance of complying with 100% of the documents required by the Ministry of Transport.
Lieutenant Andrés Muñoz has been designated to assist and clarify any doubts regarding this process.
The circular issued by the Colombian National Directorate of Firefighters signifies a concerted effort to integrate internationally donated emergency vehicles into the national framework.
This initiative reflects a pragmatic approach to enhancing the country’s emergency response capabilities while adhering to established legal and regulatory standards.
The resolution and subsequent directives issued to firefighting bodies underscore the importance of maintaining a fleet of emergency vehicles that are not only operationally efficient but also legally compliant.
As the deadline approaches for the submission of necessary documentation, this initiative is expected to lead to an increased operational readiness of emergency services, thereby bolstering public safety across Colombia.
