Vodafone given more time to launch new network

Vodafone has been granted an additional six months to achieve nationwide coverage and launch services by the telecoms regulator ictQatar. The cellco was originally required to launch full services and cover 98% of the population by 1 March 2009, but is now required to launch by 1 July 2009 and achieve the population coverage target by 1 September. The watchdog said it made the decision due to delays suffered by Vodafone in acquiring base station sites.