Authorities in the BRtish capital, London are planning to deploy free Wi-Fi network in the city during the next year’s Olympics as the mobile operators will face a capacity crunch.

The service is expected to ease the strain on mobile networks in the city during the mega sporting event in 2012. London Mayor Boris Johnson had recently pointed out that Olympics will place a strain on mobile networks.

As much as 80% of internet traffic is expected to be video and user-generated, thus stretching operator capacity. Wi-Fi areas will be created around London to allow tourists flocking to the city to easily access internet connectivity. Several companies have filed their bids for participating in the project to offer free Wi-Fi during the event.

The authorities have short listed six Wi-Fi providers including BT, Sky, 02 and Virgin. And the framework is expected to be announced by November.